Mercedes-Benz is counting on some good news, and their upcoming electric CLA might be the star to deliver it. In a market where Mercedes’ previous EVs have struggled, the new CLA is touted as the brand’s first true Tesla rival.
The New Electric Contender
Previous electric offerings from Mercedes-Benz, like the EQC crossover and the EQE and EQS sedans, haven’t been huge hits. With the upcoming CLA, CEO Ola Källenius is hoping to prove that Mercedes is ready to dominate in electric mobility. This CLA is just the beginning of a sleek, electric lineup on the new MMA (Mercedes Modular Architecture) platform, which aims to wipe away previous EV disappointments by focusing on range, speed, and luxurious interiors.
In addition to the 4.75-meter CLA sedan, Mercedes will introduce the GLA, GLB, and a CLA Shooting Brake on the same platform. Each will boast refined proportions, inspired by the IAA concept, with rear-wheel electric drive for standard models and all-wheel drive for higher-powered versions. The new CLA aims to achieve up to 750 km on a single charge with a target consumption of just 12 kWh per 100 km. With its new 800-volt technology, the CLA is designed to cover 400 km in just a 15-minute charge, giving petrol loyalists a reason to rethink electric.
“We aim to meet or exceed every promise we made at the IAA last fall,” says Källenius, referencing Mercedes’ commitment to developing key components in-house.
Not Ready to Go All-In on Electric
While Källenius and Mercedes’ Head of Development Axel Heix are confident in the new CLA, they acknowledge that the world is not fully ready for an all-electric lineup. Mercedes will still offer the CLA with a conventional engine, which drives the front wheels, allowing customers a choice between EV power and a four-cylinder turbocharged engine—though diesel options are out, and manual transmissions are no more.
The new gas engine, co-developed with Geely, may be a tough pill for some traditional Mercedes fans to swallow, though they may recall the previous CLA and A-Class models used engines from Renault-Nissan.
First Driving Impressions
On the closely guarded Mercedes test track, Källenius shows genuine excitement for the CLA’s performance. The seats are comfortable, with ample space both front and rear, and each model will come with a panoramic glass roof—unshaded, following Tesla’s example.
The display inside, a standout feature, spans from one A-pillar to the other, delivering crisp graphics and navigation developed with Google. The advanced MB.OS operating system, loaded with apps and powered by ChatGPT, makes even the E-Class and S-Class feel outdated.
Practical Space, Competitive Pricing
The CLA offers generous cargo space in both front and rear, competing with Tesla’s Model 3 and even encroaching on Mercedes’ own C-Class territory. The pricing will be crucial, as Mercedes aims to avoid the discounting game seen with competitors. Tesla’s Model 3, for instance, starts just above €40,000 and offers multiple configurations, with rear- and all-wheel-drive options and a maximum range of 700 km. For Mercedes, the interior and brand experience will be major differentiators. Källenius refers to the car’s interior touches as “jewelry,” signaling the company’s emphasis on quality and luxury.
Confident in the CLA’s potential, Källenius just needs the market to embrace this next step in Mercedes’ electric journey.
