Mercedes-Benz CLA
Electrification process tailored to market needs
The new Mercedes-Benz CLA is currently undergoing testing, equipped with a new 48V hybrid system. Mercedes-Benz has been moving towards a fully electrified lineup, but has decided to add a hybrid model to its lineup in response to market needs.
Mercedes-Benz continues to develop a variety of drivetrains to offer customers more choice. The new CLA, scheduled for release in 2025, will be available with an economical 48V mild hybrid model in addition to the innovative all-electric powertrain that was initially announced.
Mercedes-Benz points out that while BEVs play an important role in implementing its sustainable business strategy, customer demand and commercial needs in each region of the world will determine the pace of electrification. As such, the new CLA, the first of the new generation of models, will be available as a mild hybrid model using 48V technology and a 20kW electric motor integrated into the transmission.
The “MMA Hybrid” system, currently under development, features an unprecedentedly compact motor and gearbox design. The newly developed 48V battery, which uses lithium-ion technology, delivers up to 1.3kWh of energy. The battery cells and DC/DC converter are integrated into a so-called flat pack.
The electric motor supports the engine, especially at low speeds. By covering the low speed range in EV mode, inefficient driving is eliminated. Driving in EV mode in urban areas is now possible, ensuring high efficiency. The car also has a coasting function up to 100 km/h, and the regenerative system can regenerate up to 25 kW of energy into the battery.
Introducing the newly developed 1.5-liter inline-four “M252” engine
The base internal combustion engine is a newly developed Mercedes-Benz 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder “M252” gasoline engine, which will be deployed in various models after being installed in the CLA.
The electric motor and inverter are incorporated into the newly developed, extremely compact 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, the 8F-eDCT, named after the electric motor integrated into the transmission and electro-hydraulic control of the system.
The newly developed Mercedes-Benz 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder “M252” gasoline engine uses a Miller cycle and is part of the modular engine family “FAME (Family of Modular Engines).” After being first installed in the new CLA, it is scheduled to be rolled out to various models.
Common features of the “FAME” units include an all-aluminum crankcase that uses “NANOSLIDE” technology, a cylinder head with a partially integrated manifold, and a turbocharger with a segment turbine that can switch between scroll connections.
At launch, the M252 will be available in three power output levels: 100kW (135PS), 120kW (163PS), and 140kW (190PS). Drivetrain options include front-wheel drive (FWD) and 4MATIC all-wheel drive (AWD). The M256 also features a 48V electric refrigerant compressor, which reduces engine friction and allows the air conditioning to operate even when the vehicle is stationary or in EV mode.
