Anyone who thinks going electric isn’t the future of motoring might want to take a look at the new Concept CLA Class from Mercedes. This fully battery-powered vehicle has just been unveiled in Munich, Germany and it’s got plenty of headline-grabbing upgrades. Perhaps the most impressive part of this new EV is its lengthy range.
As we all know, distance between refills continues to be a major concern for motorists considering ditching their petrol-powered cars ahead of the 2030 UK ban but the Concept CLA Class should help end that range anxiety.
Mercedes is promising a whopping 466 miles on the road before owners will need to find a plug. That’s all thanks to this car using technology found in the German car firm’s VISION EQXX – an EV capable of travelling 750 miles on a single charge.
When things do run flat, the Concept CLA Class can be fast refilled with 15 minutes of charge offering 248 miles of motoring.
Those travelling inside this car will find the latest tech including a giant Superscreen which stretches across the whole of the dashboard. This offers data about the car along with entertainment, navigation and how much range is left in the tank.
There’s also an expansive glass roof for panoramic views of the world around you and LED lighting can be changed to suit your mood. Mercedes also says that the Concept CLA Class showcases the use of sustainable materials throughout its structure and interior.
This ranges from almost CO2-free steel and CO2-reduced aluminium to sustainably produced and processed leather upholstery as well as trim made from paper.
Speaking about the unveiling of the new concept, Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, Chief Technology Officer, said: “The technology that provides the foundation for the Concept CLA Class represents an entirely new approach for Mercedes-Benz and incorporates many learnings from our groundbreaking VISION EQXX technology programme. For instance, our engineers have maximised efficiency by driving down losses in its 800 V electric-drive system.
“It also features innovative battery cell chemistry as well as a high level of integration enabling excellent energy density. I am certain that our MMA platform will enable us to offer our customers in this market segment a class-defining combination of performance, sustainability, safety and comfort paired with an outstanding digital experience.”
Of course, this is just a concept car for now but it shows what could be possible and how going electric really could really be the future.
