Mercedes-Benz to Offer Electric and Hybrid Models on New MMA Compact Car Platform
Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius recently announced that the electric and hybrid models based on the new MMA compact car platform will be priced at similar levels. This move comes as part of the company’s strategy to expand its electric vehicle lineup and make them more accessible to consumers.
The production electric version of the new CLA saloon, built on the MMA platform, is set to be unveiled next month, with deliveries expected to begin in the summer. Following this, the hybrid version will be introduced later in the year, providing customers with a choice of environmentally friendly options.
One of the key factors contributing to the affordability of the electric version is a 30% reduction in battery pack production costs. This has enabled Mercedes to lower the price of the EV by around 15%, making it comparable in pricing to the hybrid combustion engine version, according to Källenius.
Mercedes plans to offer four body shapes on the MMA platform, including saloon and shooting brake versions of the CLA, as well as replacements for the GLA/EQA and GLB/EQB crossovers. The company estimates that these models will account for a significant portion of its global sales, reaching around 500,000 units once all variants have been launched.
The MMA platform is designed to accommodate both hybrid and electric drivetrain options without compromising on performance or packaging. The electric models will be available with a choice of battery sizes, with the option for a maximum range of around 440 miles on a single charge.
In addition to the electric models, Mercedes has also focused on enhancing the efficiency of its mild-hybrid offerings. The new CLA will feature a 48V starter-generator paired with a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, delivering “diesel levels of efficiency” according to the company.
Overall, the new MMA platform represents a significant step forward for Mercedes-Benz in its electrification efforts. By offering a range of electric and hybrid models at competitive prices, the company aims to make sustainable driving more accessible to a wider audience.
