As Mercedes unveiled the all-electric CLA concept at the IAA Mobility 2023 in Munich as a near-to-production version, final approval was in line with expectations. By the mouth of Mercedes Head of Production Jörg Burzer, it is now confirmed that the model, which introduces a significant shuffle in the small car portfolio from the brand, will be manufactured in Rastatt, Germany, as of 2025.

However, only the European versions will be assembled in Rastatt. Without detailing the timeline, Mercedes says it will set up additional assembly lines in Bejing, China, and Kekcsemet, Hungary. The latter factory is where the current version of the CLA is built, all combustion-engined models.

Though the concept on stage in Münich, which took many styling cues and technology from the experimental EQXX, gives a clear image of the final version, the official model will be unveiled in 2024.

‘Electric First’

The electric CLA is the first model on Mercedes’ new MMA platform for small cars. It introduces an 800-volt network and promises a range of up to 750 kilometers because the sleek lines and improved aerodynamics consume 12 kWh per 100 kilometers. You can read more about the concept here.

It was presented as a ‘hypermiler’. The architecture prioritizes battery power – called Electric First – but isn’t exclusively built for it. ICE engines remain a possibility, though Mercedes hasn’t shed light on other drivelines.

The company stated that it will introduce electric platforms only as of 2025, but under its “where market conditions allow” disclaimer. However, MMA is regarded as the company’s final mixed architecture.

Reshuffle at the bottom end

The CLA marks a new beginning for Mercedes’ presence in the bottom end of the market, as today’s generations of the A-Class and B-Class will disappear. They are to be replaced by two cross-overs joining the CLA and a shooting brake option, which is popular in Europe. But those first two version can easily be regarded as successors to the EQA and EQB.

As part of a two-million investment plan, the factory in Rastatt is undergoing significant changes. Mercedes uses a digital twin to accelerate the conversion, save time, and avoid defects.

The Rastatt plant is used to pioneer digital production, especially in the paint shop. AI helped to create efficiency gains in topcoat booths, where vehicle chassis get their paint and protection layers.

The overall aim is to increase efficiency by 20%, a condition to make the production of EVs more profitable. Burzer added that he doesn’t expect a negative impact on employment because of the downsizing, as the new product is developed to attract more customers.