New Mercedes-AMG CLA is 671bhp EV – with pops and bangs
Braking is performed primarily by the electric motors, which can supply up to 300kW to the battery. The hydraulic system has also been upgraded, with 390mm ventilated discs and six-piston calipers up front, and 350mm ventilated discs with single piston calipers at the rear.
Completing the dynamic overhaul is a wider track, which stretches the CLA by 24mm horizontally compared with the standard car, plus adaptive dampers and an active rear spoiler.
The rear spoiler and more aggressive stance clearly differentiate the car from the regular CLA, but further stylistic tweaks include the optional replacement of the front light bar with a new air duct, giving a more purposeful look. It rides on 19in alloy wheels as standard, although 20s will also be offered, and at the rear end is the largest diffuser yet fitted to an AMG hot hatch.
In the Eco, Comfort and Sport drive modes, the spoiler is reclined until 90mph in order to reduce drag and preserve range, but it is permanently raised in S+ and Race. Its position can be overridden using the steering wheel controls.
The CLA 45 saloon is claimed to be capable of covering 416 miles between charges, while the Shooting Brake manages 398 miles. This is thanks in part to not only the large battery but also a system that disconnects the front motor when it is not needed, which reduces energy waste from friction. In the normal drive modes it is disconnected up to 100mph or until additional traction is required at the front axle, at which point it engages within one millisecond.
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