Rahul Somvanshi
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the Concept CLA Class, a vehicle that not only showcases the brand’s commitment to innovation but also its dedication to sustainability. Drawing inspiration from the VISION EQXX, the Concept CLA Class is a testament to the future of automotive design, where luxury meets eco-friendliness.
The Concept CLA Class was revealed in Munich and is expected to set the stage for the upcoming full redesign of the CLA. Production is slated to begin in late 2024, indicating that the final product will likely be the 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA for the U.S. market. Following this, three other variants are anticipated, including a wagon and two SUVs, potentially replacing the current GLA and GLB.
This concept car is built on the new Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA), designed specifically for entry-level EVs. Its design is reminiscent of what one would expect from a next-generation CLA-class, but with added concept-car touches. The vehicle’s length is approximately 185 inches, similar to the current CLA. Design-wise, it boasts a broad stance, six-spoke 21-inch wheels, a beautifully sculpted shark nose, and smooth flanks.
Powering the Concept CLA Class is a rear-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor, producing 235-hp. This motor utilizes the MB.EDU technology from the Vision EQXX concept, which remarkably requires almost no rare-earth materials. The motor’s output is channeled through a two-speed transmission, ensuring efficiency across various speeds. Additionally, the motor and battery use an 800-volt architecture, emphasizing efficiency.
One of the standout features is its impressive range. Preliminary specs suggest a range of 750 km, with consumption at a mere 12 kWh per 100 kilometers based on Europe’s WLTP test cycle. This translates to about 400 miles of range and efficiency nearing 150 MPGe in EPA terms. The 800-volt architecture also supports DC fast-charging at 250 kW, allowing for approximately 200 miles of range to be added in just 15 minutes.
The interior of the Concept CLA Class is dominated by the EQXX-inspired MBUX Superscreen, which spans the entire cabin. This screen serves as the dashboard and offers a unique user interface and experience. Interestingly, the MB.OS chip that powers it is housed beneath the Superscreen in a luminous water-cooled housing, reminiscent of the Flux Capacitor from “Back to the Future.”
Other notable interior features include a starry-night roof adorned with hundreds of three-pointed stars, one-piece four-place bucket seats, and an abundance of silver-hued leather. The large rotary climate dials near the Superscreen’s ends are particularly eye-catching, allowing users to adjust the temperature with an embedded readout.
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Mercedes-Benz has also incorporated Level 3 automation capabilities into the Concept CLA Class. While this feature won’t be available at launch, the sensors and the OTA updatability of the MB.OS-powered software make it likely for future implementation.
Furthermore, the Concept CLA Class introduces a Child Presence Detection (CPD) system. This system uses sensors and cameras to detect breathing patterns, aiming to prevent young children from being left in the car during warm weather. If a child is detected without an adult, the system will first issue a warning, then activate the air conditioning and sound the horn.
The Concept CLA Class is a bold statement from Mercedes-Benz, highlighting the brand’s vision for the future. It seamlessly blends advanced technology, sustainable materials, and futuristic design. As Mercedes-Benz continues to push the boundaries of innovation, vehicles like the Concept CLA Class are setting new standards in the luxury car segment. The vehicle’s emphasis on bio-engineered structural elements and sustainable materials showcases the brand’s commitment to the environment. With its groundbreaking features and design, the Concept CLA Class is poised to redefine luxury in the automotive industry.
