The 2026 Mercedes CLA EV introduces real one-pedal driving.
Mercedes is prioritizing effectivity and vitality recuperation with the brand new CLA EV, which is about to debut in 2025. The automaker has not disclosed pricing for this mannequin but.
Historically, many producers have opted to restrict regenerative braking in electrical automobiles out of considerations for stability on slick roads. Nevertheless, Mercedes-Benz is difficult that notion with its upcoming EVs, starting with the CLA EV’s next-generation system.
Throughout a current check drive in a CLA EV prototype within the Austrian Alps, Timo Stegmaier, the senior supervisor of electrical drive methods at Mercedes, and spokesperson Tom Steller showcased the automobile’s superior braking and propulsion capabilities in difficult blizzard situations.
The Mercedes staff acknowledged the suggestions they obtained concerning the braking methods within the EQE and EQS fashions, particularly relating to their inconsistent pedal really feel and friction factors. Initially, the brakes had been thought of subpar, however updates have made them acceptable. The CLA EV, nevertheless, is designed in order that the brake pedal won’t transfer until actively engaged by the motive force.
The CLA EV options three regenerative braking modes: D-, D, and D+, with an extra D Auto mode. Probably the most aggressive setting, D-, allows most one-pedal driving, whereas the opposite modes present progressively much less regeneration. The D Auto mode is meant to make computerized changes primarily based on driving situations, just like methods utilized in different fashions, however its precise performance within the CLA EV stays to be totally defined.
The roads in the course of the check had been icy and lined with blowing snow, but even in D- mode, the CLA EV maintained traction with its Michelin Alpin 5 winter tires. The automobile’s regenerative braking system, using superior PCUs and ECUs, reacted promptly and successfully, sustaining stability and composure all through the drive—a notable achievement given the situations.
In most present EVs, drive modes for snow or slippery situations usually scale back or disengage regenerative braking to keep away from tire slip. Nevertheless, a Mercedes consultant talked about that suggestions for max recuperation in these situations are tailor-made particularly for the CLA EV, benefiting from next-gen sensors that optimize security and effectivity.
The CLA EV is able to 200 kW of vitality recuperation earlier than partaking the friction brakes. In the course of the check drive, the prototype by no means required the usage of friction brakes, a outstanding feat.
This vitality is channeled again into an 85.0-kWh (usable) battery by way of an 800-volt electrical system. Mercedes claims the automobile can cost at as much as 320 kW and add roughly 186 miles of vary in simply 10 minutes. Charging from a ten% to an 80% state of cost would take beneath 22 minutes, with an 11.0-kW onboard charger for Degree 2 AC charging.
The CLA EV delivers a fast, comfy, and steady driving expertise. Underneath onerous acceleration, the prototype easily propelled ahead with out spinning the tires, displaying outstanding adherence to the highway. The twin-motor setup, that includes Mercedes’ EDU 2.0, features a 268-hp synchronous motor on the rear and a 107-hp motor on the entrance. Whereas efficiency metrics have not been formally launched, it appears affordable to count on a 0-60 mph time within the low 4-second vary for the dual-motor mannequin.
The prototype experience utilized a non-active standard suspension, which was each comfy and well-controlled. Whereas particulars about potential adaptive dampers in larger trims stay unclear, the prototype offered a experience high quality similar to that of a bigger C300 mannequin.
The outside of the CLA EV was camouflaged, but it surely mirrored the idea design from 2023, that includes LED head and taillights. Inside, the dashboard appeared fully completely different from the present EQE and EQS fashions, indicating a major redesign.
Though entry to the CLA EV was restricted in the course of the expertise, the improvements and changes famous counsel that Mercedes is dedicated to enhancing the electrical automobile expertise, specializing in effectivity and driver suggestions to make the 2026 CLA EV a cornerstone of its future electrical lineup.
Mercedes-Benz sponsored the journey and lodging for this first-hand evaluate.
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