Mercedes-Benz has introduced that the A-Class hatchback will stay in manufacturing till 2026 in worldwide markets, revising earlier plans to retire the fourth-gen mannequin this yr. This resolution comes amidst the shift within the firm’s EV plans, transferring away from a solely EV-focused method in the direction of a extra “flexible” mannequin technique.

1. Merc’s beforehand dedicated electric-first technique has been revised
2. Future A-Class, CLA will probably be based mostly on MMA platform
3. MMA platform in a position to accommodate number of drivetrain choices

Mercedes Benz’s revised EV technique

Previously dedicated to an electric-only technique and an entire EV line-up by 2030, Mercedes-Benz CEO has revised this plan. This change in technique is on the subject of research that venture that solely half of the corporate’s world gross sales targets will probably be achieved by the sale of plug-in hybrid electrical autos (PHEVs) and electrical autos (EVs) by 2030. The CEO additional cited ongoing challenges resembling the worth distinction between EVs and inner combustion engine (ICE) cars as an element influencing client adoption charges.

Commenting on the ICE to EV transformation, Mercedes-Benz CEO, Ola Kallenius stated, “I don’t think anyone had ever thought that the once-in-a-century transformation of the auto industry will be a straight line. There will be peaks and troughs.” However, for India, the model had beforehand stated that going all-electric is a greater technique than hybrids.

Next-gen Mercedes Benz A-Class, CLA particulars

Mercedes-Benz’s resolution to extend A-Class manufacturing led to needed modifications to the Rastatt manufacturing plant in Germany. This modification, nevertheless, has enabled the manufacturing of cars based mostly on the MFA compact car platform and its electric-oriented MMA successor. Going additional, the MMA platform is designed to accommodate varied drivetrains, together with ICE, PHEV and EV configurations.

The upcoming CLA, the third-generation mannequin, would be the first to be geared up with the MMA platform with a number of powertrain choices. While a idea was showcased on the Munich Motor Show, a manufacturing mannequin is but to be unveiled. Mercedes earlier claimed that the manufacturing model will solely be ‘lightly altered’ over the idea. The ICE variants of the CLA will characteristic the corporate’s M282 petrol engine, which may also energy future Geely, Lynk&Co and Volvo fashions. Meanwhile, the electrical variations of the CLA will probably be provided in single- or dual-motor powertrains, supported by totally different battery choices offering ranges of as much as 750km.

Mercedes-Benz A-Class in India

In India, Mercedes solely affords the A-Class hatchback in range-topping AMG A forty five kind, priced at Rs 93.40 lakh. However, the sedan model, referred to as A-Class Limousine, can be accessible in A 200 and A 200d guise, priced at Rs 43.80 lakh and Rs 46.30 lakh, respectively. Facelifts for the A-Class hatchback and sedan have been launched in May final yr.

All worth, ex-showroom, India

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