Mercedes Unleashes the CLA Bomb Against Tesla Model 3

Mercedes has confirmed the start of production, beginning in 2025, of its CLA concept presented in 2023. Its target is identified: the Tesla Model 3.

Enough joking, Mercedes is stepping up its game in the electric sector. Until now, its approach was largely limited to elitist and expensive vehicles, with cutting-edge technology, but not aimed at the general public. Now, the German manufacturer aims to spread this electric technology by launching a whole range of more affordable vehicles.

A recent study showed that the average price of a Mercedes sold in the United States was 72,000 euros, while the market average was around 55,000 euros. There are therefore market shares to seize by offering cheaper cars, without compromising their Premium image.

To achieve this, Mercedes has designed a modular electric and thermal platform, with its first creation arriving on the market in 2025: the CLA. With its 800 Volt architecture, it promises 750 kilometers of range in the European mixed cycle and a consumption of 12 kWh/100 km. From this, we can deduce the battery capacity: 90 kWh.

In its argument, Mercedes compares the energy consumption of its future electric sedan to the imaginary car that consumes 1 liter per 100 km. However, it is uncertain whether the thermal versions that will arrive in 2026 will be capable of such a feat.

Made in Germany

By using the CLA name already employed in commerce, Mercedes does not hide its target in terms of size and price. The German manufacturer does not shy away from stating that it is aiming for younger, dynamic customers with a price close to 40,000 euros. The Tesla Model 3 is in its sights.

Production will take place in Rastatt, Germany.

The modularity of the platform will allow Mercedes – and this is again a statement, not a hypothesis – to later adapt the CLA into an SUV to compete with the Tesla Model Y in 2026, as well as into a Coupe and a Station Wagon.

Finally, Mercedes has confirmed the discontinuation, with the arrival of the electric SUV, of the successful EQB, which struggles to find its audience. It will have had a sufficient run and will need to make way in the showrooms.

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