Charge Up Fast: New Electric Vehicle Eliminates Range Anxiety in Just 10 Minutes
When purchasing an electric vehicle, Americans have two key requirements: longer range and faster charging times.
The potential answer from German car manufacturer Mercedes-Benz could be the forthcoming electric CLA sedan.
The car, set to be available at dealerships later this year, boasts "the longest range and fastest charging capabilities" among all Mercedes models, stated Markus Schäfer, who serves as both a member of the Mercedes board and their chief technology officer.
Extent of range and battery charging capabilities are key factors for purchasers," Schäfer stated to ABC News. "Additionally, concerns about the accessibility of charging networks arise, and in certain nations, it’s also about the expense of power. The acceptance of electric vehicles is progressing more slowly than both the automotive sector and the public anticipated.
He remarked, "This is the most efficient Mercedes model yet."
The CLA has an estimated range of almost 500 miles per full charge, as stated by Mercedes. The vehicle’s underbody features an 800-volt electric system that enables its 48-volt lithium-ion battery to gain approximately 200 miles of additional range within just ten minutes via regenerative braking. Additionally, it supports rapid DC charging at rates up to 320 kW.
Schäfer remarked, "Some patrons desire charging speeds comparable to refueling a gas-powered vehicle. Our aim is for electric vehicles to charge just as quickly. We’re testing the boundaries of current capabilities with the CLA model. This will alleviate range anxiety altogether."

Schäfer was adamant that the newest version of the CLA had the potential to shift American opinions on electric vehicles. Nonetheless, the firm isn’t completely forsaking gasoline-powered engines; they plan to offer the CLA as a high-performance hybrid model starting next year.
"Customers enjoy the flexibility... it’s the perfect blend of both options," Schäfer stated.
The official range estimates from the Environmental Protection Agency for the CLA are imminent. Presently, the figures promoted by Mercedes adhere to the European WLTP standards used for assessing fuel economy and mileage. Additionally, Mercedes is currently establishing 350 kW exclusive charging facilities throughout the U.S. for their clientele.
John Voelcker, an electric vehicle expert and contributing editor at Car and Driver, noted that EV assessments differ in the U.S. According to him, the EPA’s rigorous test standards might result in a 20% to 30% decrease from the stated range for the CLA model. Additionally, practical conditions may impact the expected fast-charging rates, he added.
Voelcker informed ABC News, “While the claimed charging time for the CLA sounds promising, it comes with several caveats. First, the battery needs to be pre-conditioned or brought to an optimal operating temperature. Additionally, a charging station capable of providing consistent 800-volt power must be available. Lastly, the surrounding environment should meet certain conditions. Considering all these factors, I am uncertain about the practicality of this fast-charging claim.”
However, Voelcker proposed that the CLA might turn into the brand's initial mass-produced electric vehicle.
The EQ series from Mercedes hasn’t been a big hit in terms of sales yet, and these vehicles come with a hefty price tag," he stated. "However, the company has gained valuable insights from their initial foray into electric cars. Additionally, Mercedes faces a somewhat simpler task when it comes to promoting EVs because their customer base tends to be well-educated and open to embracing innovation.
The pricing for the new CLA models has not been disclosed yet; however, Voelcker mentioned that the tariffs imposed by the Trump administration on international car manufacturers might lead to an increased cost for the base model. At present, the CLA model is priced starting from $44,400 in the American market.
SHOULD YOU PURCHASE A NEW CAR BEFORE THE AUTO TARIFFS TAKE EFFECT ON APRIL 3RD?Tyson Jominy, who serves as the vice president of data and analytics at J.D. Power, noted that the CLA outshines its rivals such as the Tesla Model 3 with numerous benefits.
“The figures are impressive, to be honest,” he said to ABC News. “We’re witnessing the growth of electric vehicles. Mercedes has maxed out what they could include in this car. The drawbacks are minimal.”
A possible downside is that it isn’t an SUV. As reported by Jominy, American enthusiasm for sedans keeps declining.
He mentioned, 'It may not meet everybody’s requirements.' However, he also recommended that those interested in purchasing an electric vehicle sedan should consider this model.
Currently, battery electric vehicles account for 9.6% of the U.S. market, which is an increase of almost 2% compared to the previous year. Despite this rise in sales, Jominy anticipates that 2025 will mark a significant shift for EVs.
The environment is challenging for electric vehicles," he stated. "Tesla itself has had to be very assertive with its pricing strategies. People in America are gradually getting used toEVs, but this process is quite slow.

The range and battery charging durations aren't the sole attractions of the CLA. This model is also notable as the first one to use the new Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), positioning it as the "smartest" car produced by Mercedes. Drivers will find it straightforward to interact with the vehicle’s virtual assistant, described by the firm as being "intuitive, simple to converse with, and understanding—much like having a close companion at your service."
AI will transform the complete user experience," stated Magnus Östberg, chief software officer at Mercedes-Benz. "The virtual assistant outshines others. Customers will adore it.