Mercedes Teases Sleek Design of Entry-Level CLA EV Ahead of Anticipated 2026 Debut

Mercedes has offered a sneak peek at its upcoming entry-level CLA electric vehicle, set to debut later this year. With an aerodynamic design and an expected WLTP range of over 466 miles, the CLA EV will challenge Tesla’s Model 3 and BMW’s i4 in the competitive electric vehicle market.

Mercedes Aims to Expand EV Market Reach with the CLA EV, Promising Efficiency and Long Range

Mercedes is offering a glimpse of its upcoming, more affordable CLA electric vehicle (EV) ahead of its official debut, showcasing a sleek new design as it nears production. According to Electrek, this entry-level electric car is positioned to broaden Mercedes’ EV lineup and attract a wider audience.

First unveiled as a concept last year, Mercedes described the electric CLA as the new "one-liter car" due to its efficiency. Built on the latest MMA platform, the CLA EV is expected to deliver around 5.2 miles per kilowatt-hour (mi/kWh), with an in-house drivetrain inspired by the ultra-efficient Vision EQXX.

Mercedes claims the new platform will offer an impressive WLTP range of over 466 miles (750 kilometers). Its 800V architecture enables rapid charging, allowing up to 248 miles of range in just 15 minutes.

As the official debut approaches, the CLA EV has been spotted several times undergoing real-world tests. In April, the vehicle was caught winter testing in the Arctic Circle, revealing its stylish, aerodynamic silhouette. More recently, Mercedes showcased the production-ready model at an event in France, providing the most precise look yet at the new entry-level EV.

Mercedes Gears Up for the CLA EV Unveiling as Competition Heats Up in the Electric Vehicle Market

Despite the camouflage, the coupe’s streamlined silhouette, shark-nose front, and modern headlight design are apparent. The closed-off front grille strongly suggests it’s the all-electric version. Additionally, a high-performance AMG variant was seen testing at the Nurburgring racetrack, adding further excitement ahead of its official unveiling.

Inside, the CLA EV will feature Mercedes’ new MB. The company refers to the OS system as the "brain" behind its next-generation vehicles, promising cutting-edge technology and connectivity.

The production version of the CLA EV is expected to be officially unveiled later this year as a 2026 model, with global launches planned for the U.S. and Europe. Although pricing details remain under wraps, the electric CLA is projected to start around $50,000. This would position it as a direct competitor to Tesla’s Long Range RWD Model 3, priced at $42,490 with a 363-mile EPA range, and BMW’s i4, starting at $53,975.

The launch is crucial for Mercedes, as its global EV sales declined by 22% during the first nine months of 2024, with 148,500 units sold through September. In contrast, BMW reported over 294,000 EV sales during the same period, marking a year-on-year increase of nearly 20%. Mercedes hopes the new CLA EV will help bolster its position in the competitive electric vehicle market.