Mercedes-Benz Concept CLA Class: the electric future of desire

MMA electric-drive system – engineered for electric efficiency

• Next-generation in-house developed drivetrain for outstanding efficiency

• Electric hypermiler redefines the one-litre car with consumption of around 12 kWh/100 kilometres

• Two advanced cell chemistries – incl. silicon-oxide based anode design for excellent energy density

• 800 V system maximises efficiency and performance while reducing charge time

As the first car to be developed on the all-new electric-first Mercedes-Benz MMA platform, the Concept CLA Class points the way for the next-generation electric-drive technology underpinning the series-production model. With an anticipated range of more than 750 kilometres (466 miles) (WLTP)3, the electric drive leads by a considerable margin, defining the benchmark in its class. This represents a remarkable energy consumption of around 12 kWh/100 kilometres (5.2 mi/kWh), making the Concept CLA Class the one-litre car for the electric age. Directly derived from the electric-drive system in the VISION EQXX, the new in-house developed drivetrain comprises an 800 V electric architecture combined with a battery with exceptional energy density and a highly efficient electric drive unit. In the Concept CLA Class it is configured for sporty rear-wheel drive. However, the modular design means it is also suitable for 4x4 vehicle applications. Making its debut in the Concept CLA Class, the advanced next-generation drivetrain is scalable to fit other use cases, including in other vehicle segments.

High-voltage battery

The innovative battery system under development for the MMA platform is based on a highly modular architecture whereby customers can choose from two different cell chemistries. The top-level variant features an anode design with silicon-oxide content for excellent energy density. Meanwhile, the entry variant leads the way in the segment with its use of lithium-iron phosphate. The battery itself has a remarkably small overall volume. In a first, its cell modules are held in place using adhesive rather than screws. The resulting structure is not only lighter than a conventional battery configuration; it is also stiffer, which offers benefits in crash safety. Likewise, the 800 V configuration facilitates a high level of electric endurance in a compact package and with lower cooling requirements. The high-voltage configuration also enables high-power 250 kW DC charging, delivering up to 400 kilometres (248 miles) of range in 15 minutes.

Mercedes-Benz Electric Drive Unit (MB.EDU)

Lightweight, powerful and compact: The new highly efficient MB.EDU, comprising motor, transmission and power electronics, was developed entirely in-house. Based on a modular concept, this class-defining unit is the first in a family of drive units engineered to meet a wide range of performance demands across a number of model lines. The 175 kW permanently excited synchronous machine is paired with a two-speed transmission. The high-performance power electronics incorporate control of motor and transmission in a single processor and feature a silicon carbide inverter for exceptionally efficient power usage. This reflects the high degree of functional integration throughout the MB.EDU that results in a compact overall package weighing less than 110 kilograms. Its extremely high energy efficiency of up to 93 percent from battery to wheel in long distance driving is thanks to meticulous minimisation of losses throughout the system and places it at the forefront of the sector.

Sustainability advances in the MMA electric-drive system

The permanent magnet synchronous motor in the Mercedes-Benz Electric Drive Unit (MB.EDU) features a significantly lower share of heavy rare earths than previous generations - close to 0 percent. When it comes to batteries, the new MMA electric-drive system takes a major step forward in net carbon-neutral manufacturing. Not only is cell production net carbon neutral but also cathode production. This will allow the company to reduce the carbon footprint of the cells by 40 percent. Further emissions reductions will be achieved through using renewable energy in the production and refinement of raw materials.

Bidirectional charging

Transforming vehicle into household energy storage device: The Concept CLA Class also offers a glimpse into the future of networking between electric vehicles and the energy grid. Software- and hardware-based bidirectional charging shows how class-defining technology leadership opens up new potential for customers and energy providers alike. When connected to a compatible bidirectional DC charging station, the vehicle becomes an energy storage device that could, for instance, store solar power for use later. Most importantly, it can also serve as an electricity supply, either Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) or Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G). The use of bidirectional charging may be subject to market-specific conditions in respect of legislation and the requirements of energy suppliers.

One example of V2H is the provision of back-up supply in the event of a power outage, while V2G applications include helping to balance peaks and troughs on the power grid or even the trading of green electricity on the open market. In all situations, the intelligent bidirectional charging system ensures the vehicle has sufficient charge to meet customer needs at specified departure times. Through the option of bidirectional charging at home, Mercedes-Benz is fulfilling the desire of many customers to combine their own individual mobility with a more sustainable way of living.

Design – iconic elements seen in a new light

• Signature graphic incorporating stylised three-pointed star as emotional lighting motif

• Distinctive and sporty shark nose defines dynamic front-end design with strong forward lean

• Hallmark A-shape grille reinterpreted for the electric era

The Concept CLA Class marks the start of a new era and the next step in the continuous evolution of the brand’s unique design language of sensual purity. The vehicle has a distinctively dynamic appearance, incorporating design elements that have become icons in their own right – reimagined for the electric and digital age. The exciting contrast of intelligence and emotion pairs with the “x-factor” of unexpected and extraordinary details to create a new interpretation of desire.

The striking use of light in its exterior design represents the Mercedes-Benz aim to be the brightest star in the constellation. It expresses the combination of electrification and digitalisation that unlocks a new elevated customer experience from the very first glance. Very-low-energy LED lighting, visible from all perspectives, is an integral part of the overall sculpture that enhances the proportions and brings added movement, life and functionality to the exterior. The long wheelbase, short overhangs, slender greenhouse and elongated bonnet convey the brand’s design ethos in this new family of Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

Mercedes-Benz designers applied the iconic three-pointed star as an emotional lighting motif throughout, re-affirming this symbol as the most enduring mark of automotive progress. This starts at the front end with the distinctive new face and continues along the flanks, with light strips above the front and rear wheel arches. Even the expansive glass roof marks a step up to a whole new level. Its illuminated and animated star pattern brings an added air of sophistication to the exterior sculpture, while evoking a spa-like elegance in the interior. Meanwhile, the distinctive Mercedes-Benz laurel wreath has been reinterpreted to create a striking new pattern for the interior upholstery.

“The Concept CLA Class marks the start of a new era. It reinterprets iconic elements of the brand’s rich design heritage to craft a whole new face of Mercedes-Benz. Here, the sporty forward lean of the distinctive shark nose from the 50s and 60s pairs with a new signature graphic for the electric age. The composition enhances the so-called eyebrow of the daytime running light with a stylised star. The star motif repeats as animated light bands in the A-shape grille design. These are defining features of our future look.”

Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer, Mercedes-Benz Group AG

Exterior design in detail

Emotionally charged expression of athletic power: The dynamic front end of the Concept CLA Class is characterised by the shark-nose design and the distinctive seamless “grille” panel. It forms a cohesive part of the overall sculpture and becomes a canvas for the illuminated animated star pattern as well as the central, iconic Mercedes-Benz star, likewise illuminated. The light bands that wrap around the front and rear add three-dimensionality to the light composition as well as anchoring the striking star-shaped headlamp clusters. These bands are made from an innovative material that has a stylish mirrored chrome look when unilluminated.

A range of animated lighting scenarios by day and night deliver an even greater sense of emotion and dynamism. They also offer an added dimension of personalisation for the driver, such as welcome and goodbye scenarios. The sporty proportions of the Concept CLA Class are emphasised by its athletic shoulders extending from the front light band all the way to the powerful GT rear end. The sense of breadth front and rear is underscored by the flared wheel arches and wide track, which give the show car a confident and assertive stance.

The sleek glasshouse features chrome applications that complement the athletic proportions with timeless elegance. As befits the coupé design language, the visual centre of gravity sits low down. The powerful wheel arches frame the striking 21-inch wheels displaying a distinctive star pattern. Precise joints and shutlines add detail and movement to the effortlessly sculptural surface design of the Concept CLA Class.

The crisp GT line and proportions of the rear-end serve to elongate the silhouette, while offering rear-seat passengers increased headroom relative to the previous generation. Likewise, the longer wheelbase affords more kneeroom for those riding in the rear. Viewed from the rear three-quarters and the rear, the design continues the theme of light and shade transported into the digital age. The wrap-around light band frames the rear light clusters that repeat the signature star design. The Mercedes-Benz star on the rear is likewise illuminated, creating a distinctive sign-off for anyone following behind.

Interior design in detail

Blend of analogue and digital brings fresh definition to the segment: Inside the spacious and airy interior of the Concept CLA Class, the aesthetic theme is one of utmost modernity. This is simply yet powerfully expressed through the considered application of a few iconic elements. The overall effect exudes a tech-infused minimalist elegance that takes sculptural automotive design into an exciting digital future and sets the tone in this segment. Finely crafted innovative materials such as paper trim and nappa leather processed using vegetable-based tanning agents contrast with high-gloss surfaces to offer a visual and tactile finish that is both stylish and unexpected. By day, it is bathed in natural light from the expansive glass roof and accented by carefully orchestrated, discreet LED lighting. The colour palette of gleaming silver and crystal white enhances the futuristic atmosphere, while detailing in cool blue and sensual violet adds a hint of exclusivity.

User interface

Inspired by the very latest consumer electronic devices: Mercedes-Benz sets a very clear benchmark in the segment with the user interface in the Concept CLA Class. Dominating the full width of the cockpit is the slender continuous sweep of the MBUX Superscreen, featuring the high-efficiency mini-LED technology and immersive 3D graphics pioneered in the VISION EQXX. Its proportions emphasise the width of the interior, while adding to the sense of lightness by appearing to float in front of the driver and front-seat passenger. Furthermore, with its razor-sharp high-definition graphics paired with class-leading digital features, the MBUX Superscreen becomes a dynamic and individualised feature of the interior design.

Meanwhile, the unibody aluminium housing reflects the design of a state-of-the-art high-end device. Digitally visualised on the far left and right of the screen are iconic turbine-like virtual air vents. This unique and eye-catching fusion of analogue and digital represents the next evolutionary step, known as hyper-analogue. The familiar iconic form has been reinterpreted as a climate-control interface. Displayed on the fixed inner ring is the cabin temperature setting. The outer analogue ring emerges smoothly from the glass surface to serve as the control. The precision-machined ring can be turned to adjust the settings thus creating a seamless transition from the digital to analogue user experience. The physical air vents are positioned discreetly behind the screen and designed to convey the impression of cooling ribs – an ingenious configuration that doubles as a source of ambient lighting. This design motif in combination with illumination is a recurring theme throughout the interior.

From paper to processors

A sense of space, freedom and intelligence enhanced by surprising details: The front bucket seats take the iconic form of purist mono-swing shells derived from a spherical whole, endowing them with an enveloping sense of safety and protection. Each sculptural outer shell gives way to a soft enveloping interior, carefully designed in layers that combine the seat cushion, backrest and side cushions in a unified whole. The lateral supports emerge from the base layer in smooth, three-dimensional S-curves. Inspired by winglets, they create an extremely pure yet sculptural form. Providing a more opulent contrast, the height-adjustable headrests are seemingly suspended in a cut-out. This serves to open up the design, while at the same time maintaining the seats’ integrated look. The seats are upholstered in sustainably produced and processed nappa leather that contrasts shimmering silver with crystal white embossed with a modern reinterpretation of the iconic Mercedes-Benz laurel-wreath pattern. The colour combination further emphasises the apparent weightlessness of the overall design.

Appearing to float between the driver and front-seat passenger in front of the cantilevered armrest, the high positioning of the centre console emphasises the minimalist sporty elegance of the interior. Its proportions and dynamic orientation towards the MBUX Superscreen create a fresh sense of space and openness. In a first for Mercedes-Benz, the visually striking trim element incorporates an illuminated transparent surface for inductive charging of a smartphone as well as a cupholder featuring the illuminated cooling-rib motif. This aesthetic quality dispenses with the need for a cover. The same design theme is also visible beneath the console in a sweeping, illuminated aluminium curve that draws the eye towards a glass showcase offering a glimpse into the digital brain of the Concept CLA Class, the new Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS). The bands of ambient light are metaphors for nerves carrying signals to the water-cooled processor, which, in turn, represents the vehicle’s class-defining intelligence. The overall composition interprets the flow of data that forms part of the bond between car and occupants.

Either side of driver and front-seat passenger, the doors present a further highlight of the interior design. The subtle concave form of the underlying structure sets the stage for the brand-new iconic design of the centre panels. Seemingly suspended in front of the door body, their long proportions provide yet another sporty and dynamic visual cue. Like elegant sails, their surface flows smoothly around the geometric profile of the door handle, fusing with it to form a natural armrest. The centre door panels are finished in the same crystal-white nappa leather as the seat cushions, further enhancing their lightweight look-and-feel, and feature the Mercedes-signature laurel-wreath pattern. This defining Mercedes-Benz element, endowed with exquisite hand-finished craftsmanship, forms a strong visual bond between the brand’s unique heritage and the tech-luxury of the future. At the base of the door, the discreet pocket is edged in a high-strength, biotechnology-based and certified-vegan silk-like fabric.

Technology transfer from VISION EQXX to Concept CLA Class

• High-voltage electric-drive system and heat pump deliver outstanding class-defining efficiency

• Further implementation of award-winning bionic optimisation of cast components

• “Inside-out development” approach facilitated by advanced digital simulation techniques

In implementing the vision for the future of Mercedes-Benz in this segment, engineers continue to draw on many valuable findings from the original Mercedes-Benz electric hypermiler, the VISION EQXX, which continues to set the technology benchmark for this class of vehicle. In addition to the mini-LED MBUX Superscreen with thousands of local dimming zones, these range from electric-drive and thermal efficiency measures to lightweight design through bionic optimisation to the application of sustainable materials.

The VISION EQXX technology programme was conceived to push boundaries and exercise immediate influence on series development. Hence, the next-generation electric drive unit (comprising the electric motor, transmission and power electronics) is directly derived from the highly efficient unit in the VISION EQXX and features a new generation of silicon carbides in the power electronics. Likewise, the high-voltage battery uses the same principles of functional integration and cell packaging to achieve an exceptionally high energy density. Another innovation transfer is the further developed heat pump, which already impressively demonstrated its effectiveness in the VISION EQXX programme. In a marked improvement over existing automotive heat pumps on the market, it extracts heat not only from the drivetrain but also from the ambient outside air – even at sub-zero temperatures – to heat the cabin of the Concept CLA Class. Together with an intelligent operating strategy, the heat pump can contribute significantly to electric range during cold winter weather by minimising the use of additional heating.

Bionic engineering was a substantive feature of the VISION EQXX development programme. The Mercedes-Benz BioniCast name applies to structural castings engineered according to the principles of nature. This pioneering digital approach has already garnered Mercedes-Benz prestigious industry awards as the company rolls out its implementation in series production. A number of components in the MMA platform have been optimised using these techniques. Specific examples include the rear-axle console, battery console and suspension components.

The use of digital engineering techniques was a key element in the speed and efficiency of the VISION EQXX development programme. The Mercedes-Benz World of Digital Twins is a far-reaching strategy to transition to a “physical follows digital” approach across all aspects of development and beyond. The Concept CLA Class and MMA platform are engineered in accordance with that strategy. This helped to facilitate the radical “inside-out development” applied to the Concept CLA Class. Virtual simulation techniques allowed designers and engineers to focus even more on the customer perspective in a feedback loop of continuous improvement.