There's no denying that Mercedes isn't doing very well with its new electric phase. Although the Germans have one of the most varied and comprehensive ranges in the entire industry, sales still do not reach the expected figures.
Faced with this prospect, the Stuttgart firm had no choice but to modify its forecasts. It will no longer be a 100% electric brand by 2030. Mercedes must sell more electric cars and to do this, it must reduce the selling price. Future entry-level models will reduce sales prices by using a less efficient battery.
Mercedes is finalizing preparations for what will become the cheapest car in the range. It will be the natural successor to the CLA and although it was initially designed to be 100% electric, Mercedes cannot afford to take any risks as it is the company's best-selling car .
The EQ versions will be accompanied by electrified units bearing the ECO label, of absolutely incredible efficiency. In fact, the entire CLA range, including EV and MHEV versions, will deliver a level of efficiency never before achieved. However, entry-level models will offer lower performance and battery life because they will opt for a lower quality battery.
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LFP batteries for entry-level models
Mercedes will offer two battery formats: NCM lithium-ion batteries or LFP batteries. The former are characterized by high performance and greater autonomy, but they are also more expensive. LFP batteries have lower performance and slightly lower autonomy, but their lower price justifies this choice.
Despite their lower qualities, the latest technologies applied to lithium-iron-phosphate batteries have made it possible to improve their performance. They are increasingly used by many brands. The Germans resorted to this resource in order to be able to reduce the selling price, at least for entry-level units.
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The electric CLA is already proving to be a prodigy in terms of efficiency and autonomy. The best electric version promises consumption of only 12 kWh per 100 kilometersor 1.35 liters of gasoline per 100 kilometers. The 800-volt MMA platform was specifically designed to accommodate the latest generation of Mercedes mechanical and electrical systems. Including a two-speed transmission that will significantly reduce fuel consumption at high speeds. According to Mercedes, 93% of the energy in the battery is converted into wheel movement.
Since the larger battery that will be used in the new Mercedes CLA will have a usable capacity of 85 kWh, the official autonomy planned according to the WLTP cycle will be 750 kilometers. Mercedes intends to take on the Tesla Model 3 on its home turf. The Germans have high hopes and great fears for this car. The company is shaping a new future where the CLA will be the gateway to the brand. From 2026, the A-Class will disappear, just like other affordable models such as the B-Class or the A-Class Sedan. This is why Germany is taking this launch very seriously. It will be decisive in securing the future in the short and medium term.
