The Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 Is Back, And It's Electric
The Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 returns as an electric vehicle with three axial-flux motors and a 94 kWh battery pack.
Key Takeaways
- The first electric Mercedes-AMG CLA is powered by three axial-flux motors.
- The new AMG CLA 45 comes in both sedan and wagon body styles.
- The sedan covers 416 miles on a single charge, or 19 miles more than the wagon.
- The electric motors produce a peak system output of 680 horsepower and 1,298 pound-feet of torque.
- The AMG CLA 45 can charge from 10 to 80 percent in 22 minutes with 330-kW charging.
What Powers the Electric Mercedes-AMG CLA 45?
The AMG CLA 45 has returned, but not as you remember it. Gone is the turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine, replaced by a tri-motor setup. Although the CLA sits at the bottom of the Mercedes sedan hierarchy, its performance is anything but entry-level.
Combining the front-mounted motor with the two rear motors yields a peak system output of 680 horsepower. The continuous output delivered by the three electric motors is predictably lower, at 612 hp.
How Does the Electric Powertrain Perform?
Performance figures are predictably impressive. Whether it’s the sedan or the wagon, the new AMG-ified CLA hits 62 mph (100 km/h) in three seconds flat. Sporty EVs have been criticized for their lower top speeds, but that shouldn’t be the case here, since the cars max out at a respectable 168 mph (270 km/h) with the AMG Dynamic Plus Package.
Those three axial-flux motors we mentioned earlier draw their juice from a lithium-ion battery pack with a usable energy capacity of 94 kWh. Stick to the sedan, and it’ll cover more than 416 miles (670 kilometers) on the combined WLTP cycle.
What About Charging and Efficiency?
When the battery inevitably runs low, Mercedes claims you won’t have to wait a long time to get back on the road. With support for 330-kW charging, it’ll take only 22 minutes to replenish the battery from 10 to 80 percent.
In just 10 minutes, the AMG CLA 45 will put enough energy back into the battery to cover more than 168 miles (270 kilometers). For maximum efficiency, the front electric motor is automatically disconnected when its power is not needed, effectively enabling a pure rear-wheel-drive mode.
How Does the Electric AMG CLA 45 Compare to Its Gasoline-Powered Predecessor?
The torque figure is even more staggering: a mountain-moving 1,298 pound-feet (1,759 Newton-meters). That’s more than triple the 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) generated by the old AMG CLA 45’s engine, the most powerful four-cylinder ever installed in a series-production car.
If you’re wondering whether the two cars have anything in common besides the name, both feature fully variable 4Matic all-wheel drive, but that’s where the similarities end.
What’s the Verdict on the Electric Mercedes-AMG CLA 45?
Although EVs continue to gain ground in most parts of the world, we remain skeptical about their appeal in the performance segment. At least for now, Mercedes isn’t saying whether it’ll follow up with another gasoline-powered AMG CLA 45, which would likely better resonate with enthusiasts seeking an entry-level performance car from a luxury brand.
In the meantime, we doubt the electric version will win over many enthusiasts with its simulated engine sounds and artificial gear changes. There’s no denying the EV is supercar-quick and packs immense power, but it’s not all about the numbers.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Peak System Output | 680 horsepower |
| Continuous Output | 612 horsepower |
| Torque | 1,298 pound-feet (1,759 Newton-meters) |
| Battery Capacity | 94 kWh |
| Charging Time (10-80%) | 22 minutes (330-kW charging) |
| Range (WLTP) | 416 miles (670 kilometers) (sedan), 397 miles (640 kilometers) (wagon) |
| Top Speed | 168 mph (270 km/h) (with AMG Dynamic Plus Package) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What powers the electric Mercedes-AMG CLA 45?
The electric Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 is powered by three axial-flux motors.
Q: How long does it take to charge the battery from 10 to 80 percent?
With support for 330-kW charging, it’ll take only 22 minutes to replenish the battery from 10 to 80 percent.
Q: What is the range of the electric Mercedes-AMG CLA 45?
The sedan covers more than 416 miles (670 kilometers) on the combined WLTP cycle, while the wagon covers over 397 miles (640 kilometers).
