- A redesigned Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class with hybrid and electric options arrives for the 2026 model year
- AMG will reveal a tuned version of the electric CLA-Class in 2026
- The reported output is a minimum of 500 hp, generated by one or more axial-flux electric motors
Mercedes-Benz on Thursday took the covers off a third-generation CLA-Class compact sedan, which will offer buyers the choice of electric or hybrid powertrains.
Still in the works, though, are versions tuned by Mercedes-Benz AMG, one of which will be an electric replacement for the current CLA 45. Prototypes for this AMG-tuned CLA-Class EV have been spotted testing, including at the Nürburgring, and Mercedes has confirmed we’ll see it in 2026.
Mercedes hasn’t provided any specs, but Autocar, citing comments made by Mercedes Chief Technical Officer Markus Schäfer at the CLA-Class launch in Rome, reported that the AMG version will feature advanced axial-flux electric motors developed by Mercedes subsidiary Yasa and a starting output of 500 hp.
The axial-flux motors were previously thought to be limited to AMG’s high-end models based on the Affalterbach tuner’s own AMG.EA platform, the first of which—an electric GT 4-Door Coupe alternative—is due next year. However, Autocar reported that Mercedes’ lineup of compact vehicles based on the MMA platform debuting in the new CLA-Class will also receive the technology. That lineup will include new versions of the CLA-Class Shooting Brake, GLB-Class, and GLA-Class, though it isn’t clear if all will get the axial-flux motors.
2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class
Axial-flux motors are both lighter and smaller than conventional radial-flux motors of similar output. Some of the designs weigh as little as 50 pounds but can deliver around 480 hp. However, manufacturing the motors is more difficult than for radial-flux motors, making them a lot less cost-effective.
In addition to the motors, electric AMGs are also expected to benefit from unique battery technologies developed using experience from Mercedes’ F1 program, particularly in the areas of energy discharging and recovery but also cooling.
The new CLA-Class is expected to reach U.S. showrooms by the end of the year, arriving as a 2026 model. The AMG will follow, possibly as a 2027 model.
