Mercedes-Benz has officially begun series production of its new all-electric CLA model in Rastatt, Germany. This highly anticipated model boasts an impressive 800 km range and fast-charging capabilities that can replenish its battery in just 22 minutes.
Following initial production reports in April, Mercedes-Benz has confirmed that the new all-electric CLA is now officially in series production at its Rastatt plant in Germany. Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz, describes the CLA as a “symbol of Mercedes-Benz’s transition into a new era.”
Pricing and Production Details
The starting price for the new CLA in Germany is set at approximately 56,000 euros, with orders having opened at the end of April. The Rastatt facility, where production is taking place, is a key center for Mercedes-Benz, having undergone modernization through hundreds of millions of euros in investment.
The new CLA is the first model to be based on Mercedes-Benz’s innovative MMA platform. Initially, only the rear-wheel-drive CLA 250+ version is available for sale. This model features a 200 kW motor integrated into the rear axle, an 85 kWh battery, and a WLTP range of nearly 800 kilometers. Thanks to its 800V system, the battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in just 22 minutes. A 260 kW all-wheel-drive CLA 350 4MATIC version is expected to be released soon.
Modernized Plant and Global Production Strategy
Mercedes-Benz has stated that production at Rastatt represents “a new phase” in automobile manufacturing. The facility is now equipped with artificial intelligence (AI), digital twin technology, and the Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS). This digital production approach embodies the company’s “Digital First” strategy.
Before the CLA production began, the existing assembly line underwent significant renovation. In a section called Hall 4.0, digital simulations allowed for the setup of the new production line in just a few weeks, resulting in substantial savings in time and cost.
The CLA will not be produced exclusively in Germany. Production for the Chinese market will later be carried out by Beijing Benz Automotive Co. (BBAC). Additionally, other models in the CLA family will be produced at the Kecskemét plant in Hungary. Batteries for this plant will be supplied by the company’s own battery factory, and electric drive units will come from the Sebes factory in Romania.
Sustainable Logistics
Mercedes-Benz is also prioritizing sustainability in its logistics processes. The 600 km transport distance from Rastatt to the port of Zeebrugge in Belgium is carried out entirely by electric trucks by logistics partner Galliker. Galliker has been providing electric transport solutions for Mercedes and Porsche since 2024.
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