How Mercedes' MMA Platform Redefines Electrification

Mercedes' 2027 CLA shows how the road to electrification won’t be one-size-fits-all. Built on the brand’s new MMA architecture, the CLA can be produced as a full EV or a mild hybrid with near-identical hardware and design—letting Mercedes flex production based on real-world demand. The hybrid pairs a Miller-cycle 1.5L turbo engine with an integrated e-motor and clever clutching that enables seamless coasting for efficiency, even if performance purists may notice some lag. On snow-covered Alpine roads and at autobahn speeds, the chassis shines, underscoring Mercedes' bet that smart platforms, not just batteries, will define the next phase of electrification.