by Mercedes suspends production of CLA L in China due to low sales
German automakers have long been accustomed to offering extended versions of their models in China for buyers who need more interior space. Last year, Mercedes-Benz used this strategy for the new generation CLA, creating an electric version of the CLA L specifically for the market of the People’s Republic of China.
Although this ultra-efficient sedan has many advantages, local buyers do not seem to show much interest in it. According to a new report from Germany, Mercedes has suspended production of this model through its joint venture with BAIC Motor.
According to MBPassion, a possible explanation is disappointing sales: only 627 units of the Electric CLA L were delivered in China in the first half of this year. Sales were particularly poor in January, when only 35 cars found new owners, and in February, only 21. In March, the figures significantly increased to 358, but then dropped to 52 cars in April and 161 in May. As for June, MBPassion reports that not a single car was sold, although this figure still needs to be confirmed.
Mercedes-Benz does not comment on this situation. It is also unknown how long the production halt may last and whether there is a possibility that Mercedes will completely abandon this model, perhaps realizing that it misjudged the Chinese market.
What does the CLA L offer?
Like the electric CLA sold in other markets, the Chinese model uses a large battery pack with a capacity of 89 kWh and has a claimed range under the CLTC cycle of up to 538 miles (866 km). While this does not give it the longest range among electric vehicles in China, it is certainly one of the most efficient. Additionally, it supports DC fast charging speeds of up to 325 kW, allowing a range of 230 miles (370 km) to be replenished in just ten minutes.
By Western standards, such DC fast charging is excellent. However, in China, brands like BYD have taken EV charging speeds to a new level by launching a Flash Charging fast-charging network with a power of 1500 kW, which can charge an EV from 10 to 97 percent in just nine minutes.
The sales situation of the Electric CLA L in China demonstrates how challenging the electric vehicle market is for foreign brands. Despite the model having impressive features such as a large range and fast charging, it has failed to compete with local manufacturers that offer even more advanced technologies at lower prices. The production pause may indicate that Mercedes is reconsidering its strategy for China, where giants like BYD dominate, constantly raising the bar for efficiency and charging speed. It also serves as a reminder that even prestigious brands are not immune to failures if their products do not meet the specific expectations of Chinese consumers, who increasingly prioritize innovation and value for money.
