Mercedes-Benz is reversing course on its plans to discontinue the A-Class, with the next generation set to embrace an all-electric powertrain. Originally slated for retirement in 2025, the compact hatchback will now live on into the next decade, directly challenging the upcoming Audi A2 e-tron. This decision highlights the rapid shift in the automotive industry towards electric vehicles and the increasing viability of compact EV platforms.
Production Shift and MMA Platform Flexibility
The current A-Class production will move to the Kecskemet plant in Hungary next year, extending its lifespan while the Rastatt factory in Germany prepares for the new Mercedes CLA. This strategic reallocation allows Mercedes to maintain production of its entry-level model without disrupting the rollout of newer vehicles.
According to Robert Lesnik, Exterior Design Director at Mercedes, the MMA (Mercedes Modular Architecture) platform is key to this flexibility. “The MMA platform is flexible, which is great because in the future we’ll have to change our minds faster than we do now.” This means the next A-Class can accommodate both fully electric and hybrid powertrains, ensuring compliance with stricter Euro 7 emissions standards set to take effect in 2027.
Design and Competitive Landscape
The new A-Class will share its electric powertrain with the CLA, offering similar range capabilities – up to 483 miles on a single charge. However, unlike Audi’s retro-inspired cab-forward A2 e-tron, the next A-Class will maintain a more traditional cab-back design. Lesnik clarified, “The next A-Class should have a more stylish cab-back body rather than cab-forward.” This approach ensures it will remain visually distinct from the EQE and EQS electric saloons while retaining a hatchback profile.
Mercedes originally planned for four models to utilize the MMA platform (CLA, CLA Shooting Brake, GLA, and GLB SUVs), but the electric A-Class will become the fifth. This move positions Mercedes to compete directly with Audi’s upcoming electric offering and solidify its presence in the competitive compact EV market.
Performance and Pricing Expectations
The A-Class lineup is expected to mirror the CLA’s powertrain options, including single-motor long-range and dual-motor high-performance variants, with a possible AMG model under development. Mercedes has also abandoned the ‘EQ’ branding for its electric vehicles, opting for more straightforward names like “Electric CLA” and “Electric GLC.”
Pricing remains unconfirmed but the A-Class is expected to remain the most affordable entry point into the Mercedes range, undercutting the electric CLA, which currently starts at £45,615.
The revival of the A-Class demonstrates Mercedes’ commitment to adapting to the evolving EV landscape and maintaining a competitive edge in the compact segment. The company’s willingness to revisit earlier plans highlights the dynamic nature of the automotive industry and the importance of platform flexibility in securing long-term success.
