When the Mercedes-Benz Concept CLA Class was first unveiled at IAA MOBILITY 2023, one thing was clear: its avant-garde design, innovative technology and new operating system heralds a new age of electric models from Mercedes-Benz – models that promise an unparalleled driving experience.

“The Concept CLA Class is the forerunner for an entirely new all-electric segment of entry-level vehicles at Mercedes-Benz,” says Ola Källenius, the chairman of the board of management for Mercedes-Benz Group AG. “The range will comprise a total of four new models – a four-door coupé, a shooting brake and two stunning SUVs – each with significantly elevated product substance.

“This new model family is inspired by a generation of car buyers who want that unmistakable Mercedes-Benz feel, with more features, even greater comfort and safety, and the most advanced technology.”

Electric first

With an anticipated range of more than 750 kilometres^[1] and energy consumption of just 12kWh/100km, Ola describes the Concept CLA Class as “a sustainable choice that is a cut above the rest”.

“Based on the Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA) platform, it provides an insight into the first complete family of Mercedes-Benz electric cars developed from scratch to put our Ambition 2039 on the road, whereby we aim to achieve net carbon neutrality along the entire value chain in our fleet of new vehicles in 2039,” he says.

The MMA is an electric-first platform that will underpin the next generation of Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Not only does it form a fundamental part of Ambition 2039 – our holistic approach to climate protection and air pollution control – it has also been developed in accordance with our ‘real life safety’ philosophy and vision of accident-free driving.

Borrowing technology from the era-defining Mercedes-Benz VISION EQXX, the Concept CLA Class features an 800-volt electric architecture that enables outstanding range and incredibly fast charging, adding up to 400km of range in just 15 minutes. The production version of the Concept CLA Class will offer next-generation efficiency – including revised battery-cell chemistry for higher energy density, and an innovative drive unit capable of delivering up to 93 per cent energy efficiency from the battery to the wheels.

Iconic design elements

The new Concept CLA Class presents an array of iconic design elements in an entirely new light. The hallmark grille panel has been reinterpreted for the electric era; the stylised three-pointed star is used as an expressive lighting motif; ultra-efficient, low-energy LED lighting brings movement, life and functionality to the exterior; and the dynamic, shark-nose front features a prominent forward lean. Combined with a long wheelbase, slender glasshouse and short overhangs, the vehicle projects an elegant and confident design language.

Gorden Wagener, chief design officer at Mercedes-Benz Group AG, explained his vision: “The sporty forward lean of the distinctive shark nose from the 1950s and ’60s, pairs with a new signature graphic for the electric age. The composition enhances the so-called eyebrow of the daytime running light with a stylised star. The star motif repeats as animated light bands in the A-shape grille design. These are defining features of our future look.”

If the exterior of the Concept CLA Class nods to the rich heritage of Mercedes-Benz, the interior is the epitome of modernity. A combination of high-gloss surfaces, soft nappa leather, and plant-based and recycled materials such as paper and bamboo achieve a masterful blend of minimalism and technology.

The expansive glass roof bathes the interior in natural light during the day, while discreet LED lighting brings the cabin to life at night. A colour palette of silver and crystal white creates a futuristic atmosphere which is further enhanced by the detailing in cool blue and soft violet.

A personal touch

Perhaps most impressively of all, the Concept CLA Class debuts the MB.OS, a unique, Mercedes-Benz-developed operating system. At the core of the MB.OS is the ability to decouple hardware and software in order to make software development faster, more adaptable, and create a highly personalised and convenient user experience.

Using proprietary chip-to-cloud technology, the MB.OS will become a defining aspect of future Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Though this fast and intuitive operating system remains hidden from sight, it has full access to all vehicle domains – infotainment, comfort, driving and charging – and delivers very tangible benefits through the MBUX Superscreen.

Dominating the full width of the cabin, the MBUX Superscreen features high-efficiency mini-LED technology and immersive 3D graphics that were pioneered by the VISION EQXX concept. Through the use of AI, the MB.OS and MBUX Superscreen act as an assistant, companion, entertainment and gaming centre, productivity zone and more – becoming integral to all aspects of everyday life.

“At Mercedes-Benz, we are dedicated to building the world’s most desirable cars. Accordingly, we made the decision to be the architects of our own operating system – a unique chip-to-cloud architecture that leverages its full access to our vehicles’ hardware- and software components,” says Ola.

“By combining this in-house expertise with a selection of world-class partners, we will create an outstanding customer experience, from driving assistance, navigation and entertainment, all the way to integrated charging. MB.OS will feature full upgradeability and constant improvements.”

Explore more Future and Concept vehicles from Mercedes-Benz.


[1] According to WLTP testing