Mercedes-AMG has revealed an all-electric version of its CLA45 compact sport sedan, replacing the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a trio of axial-flux electric motors that produce 670 horsepower. This represents a dramatic jump from the combustion engine's output and signals a major shift in the company's high-performance vehicle strategy.
The electric drivetrain uses three independent motors, likely configured with dual motors at the rear axle and one at the front. This multi-motor setup enables sophisticated torque vectoring and all-wheel-drive control that the conventional turbocharged model cannot match. Mercedes-AMG engineers leveraged the instant torque delivery of electric motors to create a performance profile that exceeds the gas-powered predecessor in straight-line acceleration.
The move reflects industry-wide pressure to electrify performance cars as emissions regulations tighten globally. Luxury manufacturers face a paradox: their high-performance lineups must survive the transition to batteries, yet customers traditionally associated these badges with engine sound and mechanical engagement. Mercedes is betting that 670 horsepower and advanced motor control can redefine what an AMG experience means.
The CLA45 EV sits in a competitive segment dominated by the Tesla Model 3 Performance and BMW M440i xDrive. Tesla's sedan delivers similar acceleration figures, while BMW's turbocharged six-cylinder appeals to purists. Mercedes positions its electric compact sedan as a middle ground: genuine performance credentials wrapped in luxury packaging and German engineering.
However, Mercedes has not announced when the EV variant reaches production or which markets receive it first. The electric powertrain adds significant weight and cost compared to the turbocharged model, which could push pricing beyond what traditional CLA45 buyers expect. Range specifications and battery capacity remain unconfirmed.
The electric CLA45 previ