Mercedes-Benz is finally interested in maximizing the market potential for cheap electric cars. Currently, this segment is firmly held by the Tesla Model 3.
This is what Mercedes-Benz is trying to disrupt by presenting the Mercedes-Benz CLA Class Concept electric car. This concept electric car, which is very similar to mass production cars, will be officially launched at the IIA Mobility Munich 2023 event which will open this Tuesday (5/9/2023).
Olla Kallenius, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, said that the concept car is very similar to the mass production model they will launch next year.
This affordable electric car will be suitable for those who want Mercedes-Benz-style luxury and comfort as well as the high functionality of an electric car. This is because Olla Kalenius said that the mileage of this cheap electric car would be a new breakthrough because it could reach 750 kilometers.
This distance is fantastic considering that currently there is no electric car that can reach that distance with the battery fully charged. This distance allows the Mercedes-Benz CLA Class Concept to cover the Jakarta-Surabaya distance without worrying about running out of battery.
“This car is the forerunner to the new all-electric entry-level car segment at Mercedes-Benz. This new model was inspired by a generation of car buyers who wanted a distinctly Mercedes-Benz feel, with more features, greater comfort and safety, and advanced technology. the most sophisticated,” explained Olla Kalenius.
Paultan said that the electric car is equipped with electric technology taken from the Mercedes-Benz Vision EQXX. The battery used is known to reach 800 volts and supports DC fast charging up to 250 kW.
The electric powertrain for the Mercedes-Benz Concept CLA Class is called the Mercedes-Benz Electric Drive Unit, or MB EDU. The unit consists of a motor, transmission and power electronics developed entirely in-house by Mercedes-Benz. This creation is believed to be the first drive unit in a series of drive units that will be used to service a number of Mercedes-Benz electric model lines in the future.
Unfortunately, until now Mercedes-Benz has not officially stated the price of this cheap electric car. It’s just that the Mercedes-Benz CLA Class Concept was presented to disrupt the most popular electric car at the moment, the Tesla Model 3.
It is known that in the global market the Tesla Model 3 is currently being sold for USD 37,940 or the equivalent of IDR 568 million. It could be that later, after the Mercedes-Benz version of an affordable electric car is produced, it will also be available in the same price range.
“It is estimated that in the future Mercedes-Benz will make three affordable electric cars,” emphasized Electrek.
