Quick Highlights:
- First-ever all-electric CLA with 792 km claimed range (WLTP).
- 85 kWh battery with 800V architecture and 240 kW fast charging.
- 0–100 kmph in 6.7 seconds; 400 km range in 20 minutes.
- AMG Line package standard for India.
Mercedes-Benz CLA Electric Debuts in India with 792 km Range
Mercedes-Benz has officially unveiled the all-new CLA Electric in India, marking a major shift for the popular nameplate. For the first time ever, the CLA arrives with an all-electric powertrain, moving away from its earlier internal combustion engine (ICE) setup.
Bookings will begin on March 10, with the official launch slated for April 2026. The new CLA EV will replace the Mercedes-Benz A-Class Limousine, along with the Mercedes-Benz EQA and Mercedes-Benz EQB, as part of the brand’s refreshed entry-level lineup in India.
I believe this is more than just a new launch — it signals Mercedes’ confidence in India’s growing appetite for premium EVs.
Platform & Manufacturing
The CLA Electric is the first model based on Mercedes-Benz’s new Modular Architecture (MMA) platform, designed specifically for next-generation electric vehicles.
The India-spec model will be produced at the brand’s Rastatt plant in Germany. Importantly, Mercedes has raised the ground clearance and specially tuned the suspension for Indian road conditions — something I think buyers here will truly appreciate.
Battery, Range & Performance
The India-bound CLA 250+ variant is powered by an 85 kWh battery pack and runs on an advanced 800-volt electrical system.
- 85 kWh Battery with 800V Architecture
- Claimed range: 792 km (WLTP cycle)
- Drivetrain efficiency: 93 percent
- Rear motor output: 272 hp
- 0-100 kmph: 6.7 seconds
The impressive range is attributed to its highly efficient drivetrain and aerodynamic design. With a drag coefficient of just 0.21, this sedan ranks among the most aerodynamic cars in its class.
Two-Speed Gearbox
Interestingly, the CLA Electric uses a two-speed gearbox, similar to the system seen in the Porsche Taycan. Most EVs use a single-speed reduction unit, so this setup should help balance both strong acceleration and efficient highway cruising.
Fast Charging
- DC fast charging: Up to 240 kW
- 400 km range in 20 minutes (under ideal conditions)
That’s genuinely practical for long-distance touring.
Exterior Design & Dimensions
Mercedes has heavily integrated its iconic three-pointed star into the lighting elements. The front grille features 142 illuminated mini star motifs, while the headlights and tail-lights also incorporate the signature design.
Other highlights include:
- Flush door handles
- Coupe-like silhouette
- 18-inch wheels
- Full-width rear light bar
- Panoramic glass roof with heat-protective coating
Dimensions
| Specification | Measurement |
| Length | 4,723 mm |
| Width | 1,855 mm |
| Height | 1,468 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,790 mm |
| Boot Space | 405 litres |
| Frunk | 101 litres |
Despite being longer, wider, and taller than its predecessor, its smooth design enhances airflow efficiency.
Exterior Colours
- Clear Blue
- Cosmic Black
- Polar White
- Alpine Grey (Manufaktur)
- Patagonia Red (Manufaktur)
Interior & Features
India will receive the CLA 250+ variant, which does not include the triple-display Superscreen.
Instead, it gets:
- 10.25-inch digital driver’s display
- 14-inch central touchscreen
- Latest MB.OS operating system
- Over-the-air (OTA) updates
- Wireless charging
- Six 100W USB-C fast charging ports
- 40:20:40 split rear seats
- AMG Line sporty steering wheel
In place of the passenger display, there’s a glass panel with LED-backlit star logos that sync with the ambient lighting — a small touch, but very Mercedes.
Safety & ADAS
While the CLA Electric is yet to undergo Bharat NCAP testing, it secured a 5-star safety rating from Euro NCAP in 2025.
Safety features include:
- Front and side airbags
- Centre airbag
- Camera- and radar-based Level 2 ADAS
This makes it one of the more comprehensive safety packages in its segment.
Expected Price in India
The expected price for the Mercedes-Benz CLA Electric is between ₹55 lakh and ₹60 lakh (ex-showroom).
Given the range, technology, and brand positioning, I feel this pricing would place it competitively among premium EV sedans.
The arrival of the CLA Electric marks a pivotal moment for Mercedes-Benz in India. With nearly 800 km of claimed range and premium positioning, it could very well set a new benchmark in the luxury EV sedan segment.
Frequently Asked Questions — FAQs
Q. What is the range of the Mercedes-Benz CLA Electric in India?
- The CLA 250+ offers a claimed 792 km range on the WLTP cycle.
Q. What battery does the CLA EV use?
- It comes with an 85 kWh battery pack paired with an 800V architecture.
Q. How fast is the CLA Electric?
- The rear motor produces 272 hp, enabling a 0-100 kmph time of 6.7 seconds.
Q. What is the charging time of the CLA EV?
- With 240 kW DC fast charging, it can add 400 km of range in 20 minutes under ideal conditions.
Q. When will the CLA Electric launch in India?
- Bookings start on March 10, and the official launch is scheduled for April 2026.
Q. What models does the CLA Electric replace in India?
- It replaces the Mercedes-Benz A-Class Limousine, EQA, and EQB in the entry-level lineup.
