Mercedes-Benz has previewed its next-generation CLA with a new fully electric concept at the IAA Mobility motor show in Munich.

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It’s designed on the forthcoming Mercedes‑Benz Modular Architecture (MMA) platform that will underpin a new family of entry-level EVs, also including the CLA Shooting Brake and two SUVs. These have a key role in getting the brand’s Ambition 2039 on the road, which aims to achieve net carbon neutrality along the entire value chain in its fleet of new vehicles in 2039.

The first of the new family, the ‘close to production’ Concept CLA features an inhouse-developed drivetrain directly derived from the electric-drive system in the Vision EQXX concept unveiled last year and comprising an 800V electric architecture combined with a battery using latest cell chemistry and a new electric motor outputting 238hp and paired with a two-speed transmission. The new battery is said to offer excellent energy density, enabling high efficiency with claimed consumption of around 5.2mi/kWh and a class-leading range of more than 750km (466 miles).

Thanks to the 800V electric architecture, the Concept CLA enables rapid charging of up to 400km (248 miles) in 15 minutes. It’s also set up for bidirectional charging, providing an electricity supply, either as Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) or Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G).

The drivetrain is configured for rear-wheel drive in the concept but it’s also suitable for all-wheel drive applications.

Markus Schäfer, 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 ground-breaking Vision EQXX technology programme. For instance, our engineers have maximised efficiency by driving down losses in its 800V electric-drive system. It also features innovative battery cell chemistry as well as a high level of integration enabling excellent energy density.”

New technologies onboard include the MBUX Superscreen already seen in the Vision EQXX concept and based on a new MB.OS operating system said to elevate the customer experience with a new level of personalisation, safety, convenience and automated driving thanks to supercomputing and artificial intelligence.

The Concept CLA Class also debuts a new child presence detection system, using an MB.OS-based network of more than 20 system interfaces to prevent accidents from children being left inside.

he production version of the CLA is due by 2025.