Mercedes Confirms 3 New Models In The Pipeline

Mercedes-Benz has revealed the Concept CLA Class at the IAA Mobility 2023 in Germany, signifying the transition of the CLA Class into the electric era thanks to the new Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA) platform. However, the concept also previews electric replacements of the GLA-Class, GLB-Class, and the not-for-US-market CLA Shooting Brake.

Mercedes-Benz has teased all four models in a shadowy image, showing what form we can expect from the entry-level models amid the electric era.

"The Concept CLA Class is the forerunner for an entirely new all-electric segment of entry-level vehicles at Mercedes-Benz. The range will comprise a total of four new models - a four-door coupe, a shooting brake and two stunning SUVs - each with significantly elevated product substance," said Ola Kallenius, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG.

"This new model family is inspired by a generation of car buyers who want that unmistakable Mercedes-Benz feel, with more features, even greater comfort and safety and the most advanced technology," Kallenius continued.

In the image above, the three shadowy silhouettes behind the Concept CLA Class show what appears to be the CLA Shooting Brake. The boxy vehicle behind it is the GLB-Class, and its raked version, the GLA-Class, first seen as an EQA test mule testing on public roads.

These body forms are not set in stone, mind you. As you can see in the image below, the CLA Class itself could have a different shape, with the blacked-out figure behind having a shorter hood and longer, swoopy rear.

That's the beauty of an electric platform. Without an engine at the front, designers have more room to play around with shapes and forms.

But that isn't the highlight of the new MMA platform.

Mercedes-Benz's next-generation EV powertrain targets a WLTP-rated range of up to 466 miles - a bit lower than the current WLTP rating of the Mercedes EQS flagship but notably impressive for entry-level models. The automaker also boasts 5.2 miles per kWh energy consumption, way better than the EQS's current EPA-rated efficiency of 3.2 miles per kWh. The 800-volt EV architecture also promises fast charging of up to 249 miles in 15 minutes.

The production version of the Concept CLA Class is set to be revealed late next year as a 2025 model year in the US. The arrival dates of further MMA-based EVs are yet to be disclosed, though we suspect it will be a couple of years at least as the revamped GLA and GLB were just revealed this year.