Electric Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 Sets Record at the Nürburgring
The new model with three electric motors and 680 hp becomes the fastest in its class on the legendary track, with European sales starting this month.
The new model with three electric motors and 680 hp becomes the fastest in its class on the legendary track, with European sales starting this month.
Mercedes-AMG has written a new chapter in its rich history at the iconic Nürburgring-Nordschleife. The fully electric CLA 45 4MATIC+ set a new record in its segment, confirming that high performance and electric drive go hand in hand. Behind the wheel was driver Kevin Berger, who on July 28, 2026, completed the lap in an impressive 7:32.070 minutes, officially measured and certified.
At the heart of this sporty sedan model are three innovative axial-flux electric motors, which together develop a total output of up to 500 kW (680 hp). This configuration enables explosive acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.7 seconds. The CLA 45 thus becomes the second production fully electric AMG model to use this advanced technology, following the GT 4-Door Coupé.
The record was not achieved through raw power alone. The vehicle is equipped with the sophisticated AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system with fully variable torque distribution, including the ability to redistribute torque between the rear wheels (torque vectoring). Additional stability and grip were provided by the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with three-stage adaptive damping and special Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS tires.
Special emphasis was placed on aerodynamics. The CLA 45 is the first car in its segment with an active rear spoiler that optimizes balance at high speeds. There are also active radiator grilles that remain closed up to a speed of 250 km/h, reducing air resistance. The Predictive Performance Manager was also crucial-a system that analyzes the track configuration and intelligently distributes energy to ensure maximum and repeatable performance throughout the entire lap.
Energy for the drive system is provided by a lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 94 kWh. According to official figures, the sedan version can travel more than 670 kilometers on a single charge, while the Shooting Brake estate version offers a range of over 640 kilometers.
"AMG was born on the track. For nearly 60 years, we have proven that this DNA still exists today. The CLA 45 writes a new chapter in that story as the fastest vehicle in its class on the world's most demanding track," said Dr. Stefan Weckbach, Chairman of the Board of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, in an interview with Index.hr.
The new Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 4MATIC+ will go on sale in the European market during August 2026.
