Quick Reads
- Triple motor setup which produces a combined output of 680 hp, resulting in 0-100 km/h timing of just 3.0 seconds.
- Built on an 800-volt architecture with a 94 kWh battery, the EV supports ultra-fast 330 kW DC charging that can add 270 km of range in a quick 10-minute stop.
- To preserve the traditional performance car experience, Mercedes has integrated seat shakers, simulated gearshifts with torque interruptions, and artificial engine sounds into the cabin.
Intro
The Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 has been unveiled internationally. Once recognised for housing the world’s most powerful four-cylinder production turbo-petrol engine, the new generation of the CLA is now entirely battery-powered. Revealed globally, the new CLA 45 marks a significant technological shift for the Affalterbach-based performance division. By introducing advanced axial-flux motor technology into both a compact sedan and a Shooting Brake (wagon) body style, Mercedes aims to prove that the transition to electric power does not dilute raw AMG performance.
Tri-Motor Powertrain and Performance
The defining characteristic of the new AMG CLA 45 is its powertrain setup. Mercedes has equipped the vehicle with three compact axial-flux electric motors, with two of them mounted on the rear axle and one at the front. Working together, this fully variable all-wheel-drive system delivers a massive peak output of 680 hp (500 kW).
0 to 100 km/h numbers stand at just 3.0 seconds, which essentially places it in supercar territory. While top speed has been locked at 250 km/h, customers will have the option to choose the AMG Dynamic Plus package, which unlocks a 270 km/h limit. For maximum efficiency, the car operates predominantly in rear-wheel-drive mode, with the front motor engaging in just one millisecond when extra traction is needed. A dedicated Drift Mode is also available by completely disconnecting the front axle for track use.
Battery, Range, and Charging
Powering the motors is a 94 kWh battery pack that operates on a high-end 800-volt electrical architecture. The CLA 45 has an impressive WLTP-claimed range of over 670 km on a single charge. The Shooting Brake version, which offers more cargo space, claims a slightly lower 640 km of range.
When it comes to charging, the 800V system allows the CLA 45 to accept power at up to 330 kW from compatible fast chargers. A standard 10 to 80 percent battery top-up takes just 22 minutes, and a brief 10-minute charging stop is enough to add approximately 270 km of range.
Simulating the Petrol Experience
Knowing that the silent nature of EVs might alienate traditional enthusiasts, Mercedes has developed the “AMGFORCE S+” drive program. This system uses 13 microphones and digital mapping of over 1,600 measurements to recreate the sound of the old four-cylinder engine. In addition to the artificial noise, the car features vibrating shakers built into the front seats and simulates torque interruptions to mimic the physical jolt of a manual gear shift.
Design and India Launch Details
Visually, the CLA 45 features a 24mm wider front track than the standard model and carries aggressive AMG-specific styling. This includes a closed-off radiator grille with ten vertical struts, active aerodynamic spoilers, and standard 19-inch alloy wheels. Inside, it operates as a strict four-seater, swapping out the traditional rear bench for two individual bucket seats.
For the Indian market, the new CLA 45 is expected to arrive next year. It is anticipated to serve as the entry point into the AMG portfolio, with pricing expected to start around the Rs 1 crore mark.
