The all-new Mercedes-Benz CLA debuts with 492 miles range

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled its latest addition to its growing EV lineup - the all-electric CLA. The company claims it designed the CLA to redefine the electric car experience, and looking at the specs, we actually agree. The new EV is a technological marvel packed with artificial intelligence and designed for maximum efficiency. The CLA is the beginning of an entirely new vehicle family, offering both electric and hybrid options, with the electric version leading the charge.

At the heart of the new CLA is the Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), making it the smartest Mercedes-Benz ever produced. The new system is enhanced with AI, and it turns the car into a supercomputer, constantly connected to the cloud, and capable of receiving over-the-air updates. The CLA promises to stay current for years to come, with improvements to everything from infotainment to driver assistance systems. That's as long as Mercedes can deliver timely updates without glitches - and we all know how that goes.

The fourth generation of MBUX integrates AI from Microsoft and Google. The MBUX Superscreen, powered by high-performance chips from Unity, displays information and apps in a user-friendly way, similar to a smartphone, making navigation and entertainment seamless and intuitive. That last bit is actually what makes a difference between a great experience and just plain frustration.

The MBUX Virtual Assistant is powered by generative AI. It is how drivers will interact with the new CLA from now on. The assistant uses ChatGPT and Google Gemini, allowing for natural, conversational interactions. This AI-driven assistant can answer navigation questions, provide information about points of interest, and even respond to emotions, creating a more personal driving experience. Navigation is handled by Google Maps, with Mercedes-Benz Navigation with Electric Intelligence planning the most efficient routes, including charging stops. The MBUX Surround Navigation provides real-time 3D visuals, improving driver awareness.

Safety and efficiency are key features of the CLA. The MB.DRIVE system includes advanced driving assistance, such as DISTRONIC Distance Assist and Lane Change Assist, enhancing safety on the road.

That's a lot of technology going into a fairly compact vehicle. Let's look at the powertrain options now. The electric CLA boasts an impressive range of up to 492 miles on a single charge - but that's with the larger 85.5 kWh NMC battery pack. There will be a smaller 58 kWh LFP battery, but the range for it hasn't been confirmed yet.

It's clear from the official figures that the new CLA is very efficient. Part of this is due to its low aerodynamic drag, but the new two-speed gearbox contributes quite a bit to the amazing range. The lower gear is used at lower speeds around town, but as soon as the speed rises, the CLA goes into the second gear and maximizes its efficiency at highway speeds. That was typically the area where electric cars suffer a lot. It seems Mercedes found a simple fix here.

There are two models available right out of the gate: the CLA 250+, offering 200 kW of power, and the CLA 350 4MATIC, providing 260 kW. The RWD 250+ version accelerates to 62 mph in a respectable 6.7 seconds, while the 4MATIC model deals with the same sprint in just 4.9 seconds. The top speed for both models is limited to 130 mph.

Charging is quick, thanks to an 800V system and a new battery generation, allowing for up to 202 miles of range in just ten minutes of fast charging. The battery itself is more energy-dense and has a reduced carbon footprint, contributing to a 40% reduction in the overall carbon footprint of the vehicle. Mercedes hasn't released official charging times but confirmed the battery supports up to 320 kW DC charging.

The design of the CLA is both sporty and elegant, with a long wheelbase, short overhangs, and a unique illuminated star panel grille. The interior is designed for comfort and luxury, featuring an optional MBUX Superscreen that spans the width of the dashboard and a floating center console. A panoramic roof adds to the sense of space, and the use of high-quality materials and innovative color options improve the premium feel. The electric CLA also gets an air-to-air heat pump, improving efficiency by using multiple heat sources and reducing energy consumption.

The Mercedes-Benz CLA is a big step forward in electric vehicle technology, combining advanced AI, impressive performance, and luxurious design. It's good to see the finished product hasn't strayed too far away from the concept we saw last year. As for prices - we should expect the CLA 250+ to start at about $55,000, with the 350 4MATIC model asking for a more premium $67,000.

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