Mercedes-AMG CLA 45: Electric Sports Car Breaks Records on the Track
The model with three electric motors and 680 hp achieved a historic success at the Nürburgring, with European sales starting as early as August.
The model with three electric motors and 680 hp achieved a historic success at the Nürburgring, with European sales starting as early as August.
On the legendary German track, the Nürburgring-Nordschleife, Mercedes-AMG has written a new chapter in its rich history. The fully electric CLA 45 4MATIC+ set a record in its segment, proving that electric drive can deliver top-tier performance. The lap was completed by driver Kevin Berger on July 28, 2026, with a time of 7:32.070 minutes officially confirmed.
Beneath the body of this sporty sedan model lie three innovative axial-flux electric motors. Together, they produce up to 500 kW, or 680 hp, enabling acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.7 seconds. The CLA 45 is the second production electric AMG model with this technology, following the GT 4-Door Coupé.
The record is not just a result of raw power. The vehicle uses the advanced AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system with fully variable torque distribution, including torque vectoring between the rear wheels. Stability is ensured by the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with three-stage adaptive damping and special Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS tires.
Aerodynamics were crucial. The CLA 45 is the first in its segment with an active rear spoiler that optimizes balance at high speeds. Active radiator grilles remain closed up to 250 km/h, reducing air resistance. The Predictive Performance Manager system analyzes the track configuration and intelligently distributes energy, ensuring maximum performance throughout the entire lap.
A lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 94 kWh powers the drivetrain. According to factory data, the sedan version can cover more than 670 kilometers on a single charge, while the Shooting Brake estate version offers 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 most demanding track in the world," said Dr. Stefan Weckbach, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, for Index.hr.
Sales of the new Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 4MATIC+ in the European market begin in August 2026.
