Increased demand for electric systems in the new Mercedes CLA prompts implementation of three-shift manufacturing
In a significant leap towards electrification, Mercedes-Benz has launched the new electric CLA, boasting up to 260 kW/356 PS power and an impressive range of up to 792 kilometers. The initial models will start at a price of 55,858.60 euros.
The production of the electric CLA is set to increase substantially, with Mercedes-Benz investing a high three-digit million amount in the production of electric powertrains at the Untertürkheim plant. This investment will enable the plant to assemble the electric axle, electric motor, and transmission into a single unit, a first for Mercedes.
The Rastatt plant, where the electric CLA will be produced, currently has an annual capacity of approximately 50,000 units. However, the plant's designed capacity is around 200,000 units. To meet the growing demand for the electric CLA, Mercedes-Benz is planning to move from two shifts to three shifts starting in the second half of 2025.
The new CLA introduces the MMA (Mercedes Modular Architecture) platform, designed specifically for electric vehicles. This marks the first time Mercedes has fully integrated this value creation in-house at the Untertürkheim plant.
Despite the focus on electric mobility, the combustion engine remains the most important pillar for employment at the Untertürkheim plant, and this is not expected to change significantly in the coming years. The combustion engine variant of the CLA is set to launch at the end of the year, with engines produced in China.
Some dealers have reported that there could be a ban on ordering vehicles for Mercedes employees, but customers have priority. Delivery times for the new Mercedes-Benz CLA are being affected by high demand, with some vehicles not expected to be delivered until next year.
In addition to the pure electric models, a hybrid variant of the new CLA is planned for 2025. Production of the CLA estate will begin in Rastatt towards the end of the year. Mercedes is also planning a third model on the MMA platform, likely the new GLA, for Rastatt.
The supply of rare earths, previously restricted by China, is secured for the production of the new CLA. Older MFA models like the A- and B-Class will continue to be produced for some time, despite no successor being planned. More affordable electric models of the new CLA, priced below 46,500 euros, will be available by the end of the year.
The production line for the first model on the new MMA platform has been running in Rastatt for about four weeks, and the new CLA is expected to reach full capacity after 90 days, with a potential daily production of 200 powertrain units. However, the capacity is designed for several hundred thousand vehicles.
In summary, the new electric CLA is a significant step forward for Mercedes-Benz in its commitment to electrification. With increased production capacity and a focus on affordable electric models, the company aims to meet the growing demand for electric vehicles.
The new electric CLA, integrated with the MMA platform, marks Mercedes-Benz's first full in-house value creation for electric vehicles at the Untertürkheim plant. The plant will soon assemble electric axle, motor, and transmission into a single unit.
The Rastatt plant, where the electric CLA is being produced, has the capacity to produce around 200,000 units annually, with plans to move from two shifts to three shifts starting in 2025 to meet the growing demand for the electric CLA.
Besides the electric and hybrid variants of the CLA, Mercedes is planning to release more affordable electric models priced below 46,500 euros by the end of the year. Additionally, they are planning a third model on the MMA platform, likely the new GLA, for Rastatt.
To support the production of electric vehicles, Mercedes-Benz has secured the supply of rare earths, previously restricted by China, for the production of the new CLA. Despite this focus on electric mobility, the combustion engine remains a significant employment source at the Untertürkheim plant.
