The upcoming electric CLA-based crossover from Mercedes-Benz is sure to turn heads in the luxury EV market, taking aim directly at the popular Tesla Model Y. With production expected to begin in October 2025 in Rastatt, Germany, the crossover will likely replace the current EQB EV in the lineup. This move is part of Mercedes’ continued efforts to cater to EV buyers and compete in the entry-level luxury segment.
### Mercedes’ New Model Y Competitor
The electric CLA-based crossover, codenamed X174, will be based on the Mercedes-Benz Concept CLA-Class, which debuted in 2023. The concept showcased the Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA), which will also serve as the platform for three other compact EVs in various body styles. The X174 is expected to offer cutting-edge technology and performance features to rival the Tesla Model Y and other competitors in the market.
### Innovative Technologies
The MMA platform boasts an 800-volt electrical architecture that enables fast DC charging of up to 250 kW, allowing for quick charging times and convenient long-distance travel. The platform also includes vehicle-to-grid (V2G) and vehicle-to-home (V2H) capabilities, showcasing Mercedes’ commitment to sustainable and efficient energy solutions. The battery pack in the X174 will utilize multiple chemistries, with base models using lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry and upper-end models using silicon oxide, offering superior performance and structural rigidity.
### Efficiency and Range
Mercedes has made significant strides in EV efficiency with the development of the EQXX concept, which achieved an impressive 746-mile range on a single charge. The Concept CLA will feature technology derived from the EQXX, including silicon-carbide power electronics, advanced battery-cell packaging, and a heat pump system. These innovations will not only enhance the driving experience but also contribute to greater overall energy efficiency and sustainability.
### Future Plans and Expansion
While Mercedes-Benz has delayed its EV sales targets, the introduction of the electric CLA-based crossover signals the brand’s commitment to electrification in the coming years. With plans for both gas-powered and electric versions of the CLA in 2026, Mercedes is poised to offer consumers a diverse range of options on the new MMA platform. The crossover segment is a key focus for luxury automakers, and Mercedes’ entrance into this market with the X174 demonstrates its ambition to capture a larger share of the EV market and compete with industry leaders like Tesla.
In conclusion, Mercedes-Benz’s upcoming electric CLA-based crossover represents a significant step forward in the brand’s electrification strategy. With advanced technologies, impressive range capabilities, and a focus on efficiency, the X174 is poised to be a strong contender in the luxury EV market. By targeting the Tesla Model Y and other competitors, Mercedes is making a bold statement about its commitment to innovation and sustainability in the automotive industry.