And, if you run out of juice, the brand new CLA’s 800-volt structure permits charging charges of as much as 320 kW. That theoretically means 186 miles (300 km) of cost in simply 10 minutes.
Battery vitality density is up, and there is a extra environment friendly warmth pump for the cabin.
Credit score:
Tim Stevens
So, then, the promise is for a better-looking, better-driving, more-affordable, longer-range, and quicker-charging EV. That seems like a successful wager, however Mercedes nonetheless has a hedge in. I did not simply drive the electrical CLA up in Sweden. I additionally obtained a go within the 48-volt hybrid model.
Sure, there is a new CLA for you even if you happen to’re nonetheless not on board with the EV revolution. This one’s constructed round a 1.5 L four-cylinder engine paired with an electrical motor that is built-in with an eight-speed, dual-clutch transmission. Engine output is rated at 188 hp (140 kW), plus an extra 27 hp (20 kW) from the electrical motor.
That is sufficient to drive the automotive as much as 62 mph (100 kph) with out spinning up the gasoline engine, however with just one.3 kWh of battery at its disposal, you will not go far with out combustion. Mercedes does not even quote an all-electric vary. The engine comes on early and infrequently.
In reality, throughout my time behind the wheel, I could not get the engine to show off. The engineers blamed the below-freezing temperatures. So, I am unable to say simply how sprightly the automotive will likely be with out inner combustion. With that four-cylinder buzzing, the automotive was fairly sprightly, the transmission slipping easily by way of the gears. Outright energy is certainly on the restricted facet, although. Anybody who cares about acceleration ought to go for the opposite CLA, the one with the larger battery.
Mercedes-Benz could effectively have a winner right here with the brand new CLA.
I obtained an excellent take a look at the inside of the 2 vehicles, however sadly, I am not allowed to speak about that but. Suffice it to say it consists of some tasteful and sensible adjustments that needs to be well-received. Extra on that to return.
Will the brand new CLA change Mercedes-Benz’s BEV fortunes? Preliminary impressions are certainly excellent. If it appears to be like half nearly as good as that idea, delivers on the vary promise, and is priced proper, it needs to be a winner.
We can’t have lengthy to attend to learn the way it appears to be like, however do not anticipate a solution to the pricing query till nearer to the automotive coming into manufacturing later this 12 months. Regardless, it is nice to see all of the testing within the EQXX lastly bearing fruit. At first chunk, it is tasting candy.
