Summary
- Mercedes-Benz CLA EV prototype broke the record set by the Porsche Taycan for the most miles driven in 24 hours
- The Mercedes CLA EV drove 2,309 miles in 24 hours around the Nardo test track
- The CLA EV could potentially become the most efficient EV on sale in the U.S.
- The record-setting feat required 40 charging breaks, with each break lasting about 10 minutes
- The CLA EV’s 2-speed transmission could help it achieve an efficiency rating of 5.2 mi/kwh, potentially surpassing the Lucid Air as the most efficient EV
Article
Mercedes-Benz recently set a new record at the Nardo test track with their electric CLA prototype, driving 2,309 miles in just 24 hours. The previous record was set by Porsche in 2019 with the Taycan at 2,128 miles. The entire feat required 40 charging breaks, with each break lasting about 10 minutes. The impressive range achieved by the CLA is partly due to its 800-volt electrical architecture, allowing for rapid charging.
The record-setting electric CLA was able to achieve an average speed of 96.2 mph during the test, with a top speed of 130 mph. The car is powered by a single 200-kw permanently synchronous motor sending 268 hp to the rear wheels. The 2-speed automatic transmission of the CLA also contributed to its efficiency, according to Mercedes. The team of six drivers and three shift changes carefully planned out the charging strategy in real time to optimize performance based on factors such as air temperature and wind.
While the Porsche Taycan is not the most efficient EV on the market, it consistently exceeds its EPA range ratings in real-world driving due in part to its 2-speed transmission. Mercedes hinted at a 5.2 mi/kwh efficiency number for the CLA EV, potentially making it the most efficient EV on sale in the U.S. when it is released later in 2025. The team at Mercedes believes that the 2-speed transmission of the CLA could help achieve this high efficiency rating.
The Mercedes team had to adapt to changing environmental conditions during the 24-hour test, with ambient air temperatures ranging from 55.4 degrees Fahrenheit at night to 84.2 degrees during the day. The optimized charging strategy took into account factors such as air temperature and the location of the charger on the track. The strategic planning and real-time adjustments played a crucial role in breaking the record previously held by Porsche.
The Mercedes CLA EV prototype used for the record attempt features cutting-edge technology such as an 800-volt electrical system and a 2-speed automatic transmission. The team’s careful planning and strategic charging stops allowed the CLA EV to set a new record for the longest distance driven in 24 hours by an electric vehicle. The efficiency of the CLA EV combined with the team’s expertise in optimizing performance during the test could make it the most efficient EV on the market when it is released.
Mercedes-Benz has proved that it is possible to push the boundaries of electric vehicle performance and efficiency with the CLA EV prototype. The record-breaking distance driven at the Nardo test track demonstrates the capabilities of electric vehicles and their potential to outperform traditional combustion engine vehicles. With advancements in technology and strategic planning, Mercedes-Benz has paved the way for a new era of high-performance and efficient electric vehicles in the automotive industry.
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