The CLA has always been the entry-level saloon that led to a World of opulence created by Mercedes. Based on the older design of the formidable CLS the car was first known amongst the enthusiasts for its frameless doors. Over the years, the CLA has gone through major updates, and the most recent one involves the addition of new Hybrid, and EV powertrains.
Mercedes Benz CLA EV
The EV line up for the new CLA would begin from the entry level 250+ with EQ technology, which would deliver a range of around 729 Km. Beyond that, the CLA 250- 4 matic with EQ powertrain would offer a range of about 770 km. The car comes in both an RWD as well as a AWD version. The CLA is famous for producing more performance in a smaller package. Beyond that, the car also gets a Porsche Taycan-like two-speed gearbox, rather than the usual single-speed reduction gearing that has been seen on EV’s.- The power output of the RWD variant is around 272 Hp. The power output of the CLA350 4 Matic, which gets an additional 108 Hp motor, is around 354 Hp.
As per the launch details the motor gets decoupled from the axle under braking reducing the energy losses to friction by a whopping 90%.Braking just like other normal EV’s relies on the regenerative effect of the motors.
The CLA has been built around an electrical architecture of 800v- allowing for a 300km range top up only in 10 minutes. As per the reports upon the launch the car would also be offered with a 58 KWH LFP pack at a later stage.
Hybrid Powertrain
The Hybrid powertrain has been specifically designed to fit the same space as that of the EV motor. The new powertrain comprises of a 1.5 litre – Four Cylinder Petrol Engine along with a small, 1.3 KWH battery and a 27 hp electric motor. These combine to send 163 Bhp through the front wheels, and the range topping 4 Matic version has a output of around 191 hp.
Interior Additions
The CLA has been modeled to provide a more sporty appearance and character than that of the luxurious stablemates. But Mercedes has not skimped on any luxury for the vehicle it gets boisterous seats upon the front with Alcantara and faux leather stitching; the dash has been modeled around Mercedes’s new addition, the super screen, which has three digital displays that span the entire width from the front passenger all the way to the driver. As per the expected launch in Europe and the showcase at the Munich auto show, the CLA may arrive in India next year.
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