Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Kaellenius revealed plans to enhance the driving range and efficiency of the automaker’s upcoming electric vehicle (EV) lineup. The CLA compact electric sedan, to be launched next year, will feature an electric vehicle architecture that aims to achieve 30% to 35% more driving range for every kilowatt-hour of energy stored in the battery compared to Mercedes’ current EV models.
Additionally, Mercedes will introduce a lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery, a first for any Mercedes EV, in the new CLA model line to be released in 2025. This battery option will enable Mercedes to offer a lower-priced model in a competitive segment dominated by Tesla and Chinese EV brands. The efficiency improvements and extended driving range are part of Mercedes’ strategy to narrow the technology gap between itself and Tesla. The Mercedes CLA prototype, which will be showcased at the IAA auto show, represents the company’s commitment to improving EV performance and efficiency. Reducing battery costs is crucial as automakers engage in a price war to sustain sales growth in the global EV market.