On the 2023 Munich auto present, Mercedes-Benz unveiled an idea automotive previewing future efficiency-focused EVs.

The Mercedes-Benz Idea CLA-Class borrows the identify of a present internal-combustion mannequin however reveals off the engineering of the Mercedes-Benz Modular Structure (MMA) that can function the idea for 4 compact EVs in a number of physique kinds.

The outside retains the identical common “four-door coupe” form as the present CLA-Class, however with headlights and taillights within the form of the Mercedes emblem, a “grille” populated by 264 Mercedes stars, and a further 652 stars within the glass roofs. Low-energy LEDs have been used for this vehicular firmament, based on Mercedes.

Mercedes-Benz Idea CLA-Class

No matter physique fashion, the MMA platform is designed round a “remarkably small” battery pack, with a number of chemistries accessible to clients. Entry-level variations will use lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry, whereas high-end variations will use chemistry with an anode made with silicon oxide. Mercedes claims lighter weigh and higher structural stiffness with this new pack.

The Idea CLA-Class additionally incorporates engineering classes discovered from the Mercedes-Benz Imaginative and prescient EQXX, the record-setting EV prototype that proved what might be gained by emphasizing effectivity when it lined 746 miles on a single cost in 2022. The idea’s silicon-carbide energy electronics, battery-cell packaging, and warmth pump are derived from EQXX designs, based on Mercedes.

Mercedes additionally utilized the “bionic” engineering methodology of particular person parts from the EQXX, utilizing structural castings for suspension parts and different elements that mimic buildings present in nature. This helps obtain the requisite energy whereas utilizing much less materials.

Mercedes-Benz Idea CLA-Class

An 800-volt electrical structure permits for DC quick charging at as much as 250 kw, recovering as much as 248 miles of vary in quarter-hour, based on Mercedes. This new electrical structure additionally incorporates vehicle-to-grid (V2G) and vehicle-to-home (V2H) functionality).

A single electrical motor containing what Mercedes says is a “close to zero” quantity of uncommon earth metals sends 235 hp to the rear wheels by a 2-speed transmission. Mercedes claims the whole powertrain, with energy electronics, weighs simply 243 kilos and might obtain 93% effectivity in transferring energy to the highway.

The inside options some sustainable supplies first proven within the EQXX, together with flooring mats woven from bamboo fiber and a vegan-certified silk-like material. Polyester textile upholstery produced from recycled PET plastic and nappa leather-based tanned with espresso bean shells have been additionally used. The Mercedes Superscreen show, much like the one within the EQXX, makes use of a brand new MB.OS chip-to-cloud structure that makes software program improvement simpler, based on Mercedes.

Mercedes-Benz Idea CLA-Class

Mercedes says the idea has an SAE Degree 2 driver-assistance system, however claims this will likely be upgraded to Degree 3 (topic to native laws) within the manufacturing CLA with the addition of lidar. A rear-seat youngster detection system utilizing sensors that detective respiratory patterns is included as effectively.

The manufacturing Mercedes CLA EV is not anticipated to reach till at the least 2024, doubtless as a 2025 mannequin, however for now current Mercedes EVs just like the EQS provide spectacular effectivity regardless of their 400-volt underpinnings.