by New Hybrid CLA Model from Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz has introduced a new member of the CLA family, which differs significantly from its predecessors. This novelty is not only a hybrid but also equipped with an engine developed not in Germany, but in China. Thus, your next German car may have a “Chinese heart”.
We are talking about the CLA 220 hybrid model, announced this week. Externally, it is very similar to the already presented fully electric CLA versions, but under the hood here works a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an unusually high compression ratio of 12:1.
Mercedes claims to have “developed” this new engine, although it does not openly advertise that it was a joint development with the Chinese company Geely.
Engine Details and Its Origin
According to reports from the Chinese publication IThome, this engine was not only developed with the participation of Chinese engineers but will also be manufactured in China, after which it will be sent to Mercedes factories for installation in cars.
Despite its modest displacement, the 1.5-liter unit uses a Miller cycle combustion process and is equipped with technologies to increase efficiency. Among them are an aluminum crankcase and a special Nanoslide coating on the cylinder liners, designed to reduce friction and increase durability.
Mercedes has also made efforts to reduce noise by adding additional sound insulation in the engine compartment, including areas along the pillars and under the floor.
Technical Specifications and Performance
The main technical features of the novelty are:
The engine works in tandem with an electric motor integrated into an eight-speed preselective gearbox and a 48-volt lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 1.3 kWh. To increase efficiency, the CLA 220 can drive solely on electric power at speeds up to 60 mph (96 km/h). The system can also recuperate up to 25 kW of energy during braking.
Overall, the CLA 220 hybrid system delivers 208 hp and 380 Nm of torque. The top speed is limited to 130 mph (209 km/h). The car’s weight is 1630 kg.
Updated Interior and Controls
Inside, all CLA 220 hybrid models received a panoramic glass roof as standard equipment. Customers will also be able to order the so-called Superscreen from Mercedes-Benz, which combines a 10.25-inch display, a 14-inch multimedia screen, and a 14-inch display for the front passenger.
However, the main news for drivers was the updated steering wheel design. At first glance, it looks the same as in other CLA models, but it has received a number of important changes. Most of the touch panels remain, but, as in the new electric GLC version, a new cruise control lever and a physical volume control have appeared, replacing the old touch elements.
The appearance of the CLA 220 hybrid with a Chinese-developed and manufactured engine clearly indicates a deep transformation in the automotive industry. Globalization and cooperation between traditional European brands and Chinese technology giants are becoming the new norm in the struggle for efficiency, cost, and speed of bringing new products to market. This may also affect brand perception by buyers who value German heritage but simultaneously receive a product created in close international cooperation. Similar steps are likely to become even more common in the coming years, as demands for environmental friendliness and the complexity of developing new technologies increase.
