The Tesla Mannequin 3 is getting a brand new rival. After teasing us for the previous few months, Mercedes-Benz unveiled its highly-anticipated CLA electrical sedan idea at IAA Mobility on Sunday. The Mercedes CLA idea is the brand new “one-liter automotive” due to its superior effectivity, enabling over 466 miles (750 km) WLTP vary. Will probably be the primary of the model’s new entry-level EV class.

Mercedes has been teasing a brand new class of entry-level EVs for a number of months now. Final month, we realized it could be a high-tech alternative for the gas-powered CLA, sidestepping the model’s “EQ” branding.

The electrical CLA would be the first to make use of Mercedes’ next-gen Modular Structure (MMA) platform. Mercedes expects the brand new EV drive system to provide over 466 miles (750 km) WLTP vary.

This may symbolize vitality consumption of round 5.2 mi/kWh (12 kWh/ 100 km), giving the CLA its “one-liter automotive” nickname.

The brand new in-house drivetrain is derived from the ultra-efficient VISION EQXX, consisting of an 800V platform, battery with “distinctive vitality density,” and extremely environment friendly electrical drive unit.

Two completely different battery chemistries will likely be supplied. The highest stage options an anode design with silicon-oxide content material, whereas the entry variant makes use of lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP).

As a primary, Mercedes makes use of adhesive, fairly than screws, to carry its cell modules in place. The result’s a lighter, smaller typical battery.

The electrical Mercedes CLA idea is the model’s first manufacturing automotive to characteristic an 800V system, enabling as much as 250 kW DC charging. Mercedes claims it will ship 248 miles (400 km) in quarter-hour. It’s going to additionally embrace bidirectional charging to permit the car for use as a backup vitality supply.

Meet the brand new entry-level electrical Mercedes CLA idea

The brand new CLA idea “marks a brand new period” and the following step within the model’s distinctive design evolution. From the primary look, the mannequin appears to be like much like the gas-powered model however with a particular fashion.

Mercedes says it has integrated design components that “have turn out to be icons in their very own proper,” reimagining them for the electrical age. Mercedes designers utilized the model’s signature three-pointed star all through the idea.

One of many first issues you’ll discover is the brand new headlights and entrance face. The entrance finish encompasses a shark-nose design with a seamless “grille” panel. Mild bands wrap across the entrance and rear with star-shaped headlamp clusters.

Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, defined, “The Idea CLA Class marks the beginning of a brand new period.” He added, “It reinterprets iconic components of the model’s wealthy design heritage to craft a complete new face of Mercedes-Benz.”

The Mercedes CLA idea sporty design is proven in its athletic shoulders extending from the entrance mild band to the GT rear finish.

In the meantime, highly effective wheel arches home 21-inch wheels, displaying a particular star sample. The GT line and rear-end proportions lengthen the silhouette whereas providing rear passengers extra headroom than the earlier technology.

On the within

The inside encompasses a tech-focused minimalist that “units the tone for the phase.” As such, the electrical Mercedes CLA idea features a full-width MBUX Superscreen with options derived from the VISION EQXX.

Digitally visualized on the left and proper of the display are turbine-like digital air vents, a reinterpretation of the model’s iconic kind.

In the meantime, the bodily air vents are positioned discreetly behind the display, which doubles as a supply of ambient lightning.

The entrance bucket seats are “purist mono-swing shells derived from a spherical complete.” In a primary for Mercedes-Benz, the trim ingredient contains an illuminated floor for charging your smartphone.

The brand new Mercedes-Benz Working System (MB.OS) would be the “digital mind” behind the car. The corporate says its proprietary chip-to-cloud structure represents a brand new method.

Mercedes says each car on the MMA platform comes with a supercomputer with AI and machine studying.

The MB.OS software program is “typically prepared” for an SAE Degree 3 autonomy system improve, in response to Mercedes, however the mannequin will initially launch with Degree 2 capabilities.

An additional advantage of the software program is its new Youngster Presence Detection (CPD) system, designed to reduce the probabilities of a kid being left within the automotive on a scorching day. The system detects modifications in respiratory patterns that alert the driving force. If the driving force doesn’t reply, it is going to flash the outside lights earlier than finally calling emergency companies.