It is not going well for Mercedes, especially because of the sluggish demand for EQ Electric models. The new CLA is expected to change this. Since customers are clearly not ready to commit themselves exclusively for electric vehicles, this latest model will also be available on request with a petrol engine.
The pressure is on the new Mercedes Cla and CEO Ola Källenius immense, which cannot afford any other failure like the EQE or EQs. While these models define efficiency benchmarks, they failed in design, charging speed and comfort. The CLA is the first vehicle based on the MMA platform (Mercedes Modular Architecture) and determine new standards and become volume sellers. Källenius has made it clear that the true competitor is not BMW or Audi, but Tesla in particular the model 3. Despite its age and dwindling fan base, the American electromdan is still an incomparable price-performance ratio at a speed of 530 km/h. Even the long-distance and all-wheel drive versions remain between € 44,900 and € 49,990.
This could be an important problem for the new Mercedes CLA, since the starting price is expected to be well over € 50,000. This price difference is significant for many potential buyers and you have to decide whether the 800 -V technology and superior comfort justify the additional costs. One of the biggest differences from the Tesla model 3 and other competitors is that Mercedes maintains an internal internal combustion option. Later in the year, the CLA will also be available with a petrol engine, either front or all-wheel drive and mild hybrid support. The exclusively of the electrical obligation was classified as too risky, so Mercedes provided flexibility via the MMA platform. A panorama glass roof is standard that enables a lot of light into the cabin, although it cannot be opened.
At the start in early summer, the electric CLA is offered in two drive strand options. The entry-level model, the CLA 250+ EQ, generates 200 kW (272 hp) and 335 NM torque, which are driven by an 85 kWh battery. With an energy consumption of 12.2–14.1 kWh/100 km, it delivers an impressive range of up to 790 km. Even more remarkable is the load capacity that can be reached a maximum of 320 kW and can be refilled in just 10 minutes. The top speed is 210 km/h, the same as the CLA 350 4matic EQ, which produces 260 kW (353 hp) and 515 Nm. Despite the higher performance, its maximum range at 770 km is only slightly lower. The efficiency of both models is achieved through advanced aerodynamics and state -of -the -art electric motors. The rear axle has a highly efficient, permanently excited synchronous engine with an efficiency rate of 93% and a two -way gear that relocates the gears seamlessly. In all -wheel drive models, the front engine takes part in additional performance as required.
Follow additional variants. In addition to versions with smaller power models of 58 kWh and AMG, petrol -powered versions are also introduced. These will contain a 1.5-liter four-cylinder turbo engine with a turbo engine with Geely. Combined with an eight-long dual clutch transmission, it is supported by a mild hybrid system, including a 1.3 kWh battery and a 20 kW electric motor, which enables short purely electrical drives at lower speeds.
With a wheelbase that is six centimeters longer than its predecessor, the new CLA offers more interior. The trunk contains 405 liters, and additional memory is available by folding the rear seats. There is also a radio under the bonnet that offers up to 101 liters of additional space. An important new function is the option of three screens, including two standard ads for instruments and infotainment as well as an optional 14-inch passenger screen and a 12.2-inch head display.
The technology package is well thought out and Mercedes has played it safe with the design of the CLA. Later, the line -up of mild hybrid petrol versions will expand, which produce 136, 163 and 190 hp to ensure that customers hesitate to switch to full electrical change. However, there are some important concerns. The cumbersome model calls such as Mercedes CLA 250+ with EQ technology can cause confusion. There is also a challenge to distinguish it from the similarly large C-Class, which will soon also be electrical. Finally, it remains to be seen whether customers are willing to pay a bonus for a medium -sized Mercedes if Tesla offers a cheaper alternative.
With a strong performance, the ultra -fast store and the option of a petrol engine, the new CLA is aimed at being the model that Mercedes needs. Another question is whether it is successful.
