Mercedes-Benz is preparing a new CLA model based on the Modular Mercedes Architecture (MMA) platform, which will be available in a fully electric version and with a combustion engine in a mild-hybrid version. We finally learned the details of this drive.
The Chinese are conquering Europe with their cheap electric cars, but it seems that European manufacturers have not put down their weapons yet. Mercedes is preparing a new CLA model, which will feature for the first time an electric drive created entirely by Mercedes engineers. What’s more, it is built on the new universal MMA platform, which can also use a combustion engine, because the new CLA will be available in two versions.
The electric CLA is impressive
The new Mercedes CLA will be powered by an electric motor with a power of 200 kW (approximately 272 hp), with main drive on the rear axle for optimal traction and driving dynamics. An all-wheel drive model will also be available – 4MATIC, equipped with an additional 80 kW (approximately 109 HP) engine on the front axle, which will be activated when more power or traction is needed. The EDU 2.0 system and two-speed gearbox provide excellent energy efficiency, estimated at 12 kWh per 100 km. If such a result is confirmed in real conditions, it will be the best drive on the market.
The 4MATIC version uses Disconnect Unit (DCU) technology, which allows the front engine to be disconnected to increase efficiency. The electric CLA will be equipped with two battery versions: a 58 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery and an 85 kWh battery with silicon oxide anodes. The 85 kWh battery provides a range of up to 750 km (WLTP). The use of an anode made of silicon oxide increases its energy density by 20% compared to traditional graphite anodes. Thanks to the 800V architecture, charging the battery is extremely fast – adding 300 km of range takes only 10 minutes. The thermal management system ensures optimal battery operating temperature, which translates into better performance and longer life.
Hybrid CLA with mild-hybrid technology
In addition to the electric version, the new Mercedes CLA will also be available as a hybrid with mild-hybrid technology. The hybrid version of the CLA will be powered by a four-cylinder petrol engine supported by an electric motor with a power of 20 kW (approximately 27 HP). The mild-hybrid system includes a 48V lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 1.3 kWh, which enables energy recuperation and electric driving at low speeds, which increases the efficiency of the drive. The electric motor can recover energy during braking with a power of up to 25 kW. The whole thing will be paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox and available in several versions, offering a maximum of up to 190 HP. Therefore, it appears to be a similar solution to Audi MHEV-Plus in the new A5/S5 models.
The new Mercedes CLA will debut on the market next year. There are many indications that this will be a very important model in Mercedes’ offer, which will mark the beginning of a new stage for the German manufacturer. The question remains how it will be valued. The electric version with an LFP battery, if it wants to be competitive, should not be more expensive than the Tesla Model 3. The hybrid also promises to be interesting, with very good fuel consumption results. We will probably learn more details closer to the premiere.
Source: antyweb.pl
