The latest Mercedes appeared on the streets of Sofia even before the news from Fakti.bg was introduced – Auto

Mercedes-benz CLA: A Balanced Approach to Electrification

The Mercedes-Benz CLA, a pivotal model for the brand’s future, is poised to redefine the compact luxury segment. While initial plans favored a fully electric approach, the upcoming CLA will be available in both gasoline and electric variants, leveraging the adaptable MMA platform. This strategic move reflects Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to meeting diverse customer needs while pioneering sustainable mobility solutions.

Recently spotted undergoing rigorous testing in Bulgaria, the new generation CLA is shrouded in camouflage, concealing its sleek lines.

However, glimpses hint at a design language harmonious with its larger siblings, the EQS and EQE. Expect aerodynamic prowess and an unmistakable light signature at both the front and rear.

A Cutting-Edge Interior Experience

Inside, the CLA will embody the latest MB.os infotainment system, driven by an AI-powered virtual assistant. This intuitive system promises a seamless driving experience through proactive maintainance and effortless interaction. Notably, a portion of its software growth takes place in Bulgaria, suggesting a close connection between the country and the evolution of this innovative technology.

Unrivaled Range and Charging Capabilities

Mercedes-Benz boasts an impressive 1,270-kilometer range for the electric CLA, achievable with a mere two 10-minute charging stops.This feat is attributed to a powerful 85kWh battery, an 800-volt architecture, and ultra-fast charging capabilities.During a grueling 24-hour endurance test at the Nardo Technical Center in Italy, the CLA showcased its remarkable endurance, traversing 3,716 kilometers with 40 charging stops, each lasting just 10 minutes. While specific charging speeds remain undisclosed, the car achieved a peak charging rate of 320 kW.

A Unified Electric Future

The CLA will be accompanied by a Shooting Brake variant, as well as successors to the GLA and GLB, including their electric counterparts.

Mercedes-Benz is streamlining its electric vehicle nomenclature by phasing out the EQ sub-brand. Future electric models will be identified with their respective class names, such as “GLA with EQ Technology,” highlighting the seamless integration of electric drive across its model range.

The new mercedes-Benz CLA represents a significant step forward in automotive innovation, offering a compelling blend of performance, luxury, and sustainability. With its cutting-edge technology, impressive range, and commitment to a unified electric future, the CLA is poised to captivate drivers who demand both style and substance.

What is the CLA’s battery capacity and range?

Mercedes-Benz CLA: Balancing Electrification & Luxury – A Conversation with Dr. marc-Marcel Marcellinus

Straddling the Line Between Tradition and Innovation

In an exclusive interview with Archyde News, Dr. Marc-Marcel Marcellinus, Head of EV Engineering at Mercedes-Benz, discusses the upcoming CLA, its unique approach to electrification, and the brand’s commitment to a balanced, sustainable future.

An Accidental Pivot to Hybrids

archyde News: Initially, Mercedes-Benz was leaning towards a fully electric CLA. What led to the decision to introduce a hybrid variant?

Dr. Marc-Marcel Marcellinus: While we’re fully committed to an all-electric future, we understand that customer needs vary greatly, especially in the compact luxury segment. Pivoting to a hybrid approach ensures that the CLA can cater to a broader range of customers, providing them with a pathway to electrification at their own pace.

Design: Equality Among Siblings

AN: Can you give us a sneak peek into the CLA’s design? We’ve heard hints of EQS and EQE influences.

MM: The CLA will indeed share design elements with its larger siblings, showcasing a unified, luxurious design language throughout our electric model range. despite its compact size, the CLA will exhibit an aerodynamic prowess and distinctive light signature that are unmistakably Mercedes-Benz.

Interior: Tech-Driven Connectivity

AN: Rumors suggest that the CLA’s infotainment system will be driven by AI. How will this enhance the driving experience?

MM: Indeed, the CLA will feature our latest MB.os infotainment system, backed by an bright virtual assistant. This system learns from the driver’s habits, providing proactive suggestions and maintaining a seamless, intuitive connection between the car and its occupant.

Range & Charging: Changing the Game

AN: The CLA’s impressive range and ultra-fast charging capabilities have raised industry eyebrows. How did you achieve this feat?

MM: Our 85-kWh battery, 800-volt architecture, and ultra-fast charging capabilities are essential to achieving up to 1,270 kilometers on a single charge. The CLA can complete 10-minute charging stops of up to 320 kW, minimizing downtime without compromising range.

A Unified electric Future

AN: Will we see more unification across your EV naming convention,as hinted by the abolishment of the EQ sub-brand?

MM: Absolutely.Unifying our electric vehicle nomenclature allows us to emphasize the integration of electric drive technology across our entire model range. Future models will clearly indicate their electric nature, such as “CLA with EQ technology,” clarifying our intent and commitment to sustainability.

AN: What excites you most about the upcoming CLA?

MM: The CLA is more than just another model; it embodies our commitment to democratizing electric vehicles and making them accessible to a broader range of customers. Its blend of luxury, performance, and sustainability makes it a standout model in the compact luxury segment, and I’m thrilled to see it arrive in showrooms soon.