Mercedes-Benz Concept CLA Class : A vision of What’s to Come
September 18 2023,
Mercedes-Benz is working on a new generation of the compact CLA sedan, and this recent concept shows what to expect from this upcoming model, which will be one of the pillars of the brand’s entry-level lineup. As part of a rationalization effort, Mercedes-Benz has decided to combine all of its more affordable models into four variants that will all share the same basic platform and technologies. Built on the upcoming MMA platform, the future CLA as well as its shooting brake and two SUV companions will mark a new era for the brand due to their stand-out designs and technologies.
Stars and lights: a new design approach
The new design direction showcased on the Concept CLA Class is based on the iconic Mercedes-Benz logo, which is highlighted in many ways by the innovative use of LED accents, both inside and outside. The front end of the Concept CLA Class features a star-shaped headlamp projectors that sit above a large lighted logo, which is itself surrounded by smaller light-up stars that fill-in the rest of the grille area. At the rear, a similar approach is employed, with a lighted logo flanked by two star-shaped taillamps. At both ends, an LED strip accentuates the contours of the body by wrapping around the front and rear fascia from the doors. Inside, the same theme is present, with star patterns shining on the new panoramic sunroof and a reimagined version of the laurel wreath embossed on the upholstery.
Advanced technologies for a digital experience
The Mercedes-Benz Concept CLA Class benefits from the latest in terms of infotainment, safety, and convenience technologies. This starts with the new one-piece glass dashboard that spans the entire width of the cabin, in addition to the large dials at each end of the instrument panel that serve a dual purpose by recalling the brand’s traditional air vents and allowing easy control of the vehicle’s ventilation system. With the addition of a Lidar, the Level 2 driver assistance system in the Concept CLA Class is more capable than before, paving the way for future Level 3 technologies that are set to launch later in the decade. Safety wasn’t forgotten either, with the concept featuring the first application of the new Child Presence Detection System, a technology that aims to prevent accidents in which a child is forgotten in a car during extreme temperatures.
More range, faster charging, smaller environmental impact
The MMA platform on which the Mercedes-Benz Concept CLA Class is built features a host of advanced technologies that are developed specifically to reduce the vehicle’s carbon footprint and improve its useability. This translates to range figures of more than 750 kilometers WLTP, the ability to add 400 kilometers of range in only 15 minutes at a 250 kW DC fast charger, and an overall reduction of 40% in terms of value chain CO2 emissions versus current electric vehicles.
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