Mercedes-Benz pushes sustainability forward with new electric CLA

Mercedes-Benz reveals its most efficient EV yet — the new CLA — alongside major cuts in CO₂ emissions and new supply chain and workforce strategies.

Mercedes-Benz has taken a significant step in its sustainability journey, presenting the electrified CLA as a symbol of its long-term transformation strategy. Amid growing global challenges and rising ESG expectations, the company reaffirmed its commitment to carbon neutrality and competitiveness, all while upholding its social responsibilities.

The new CLA, introduced as part of the 2025 Sustainability Update, is more than just another electric model — it's the most energy-efficient Mercedes-Benz ever built. Its production at the Rastatt plant is now 15% less energy-intensive than its predecessor, powered entirely by green electricity. The vehicle features an 800-volt architecture that enables ultra-fast charging of up to 320 kW, delivering up to 300 km of range in just 10 minutes — a benchmark figure that rivals industry leaders.

Mercedes-Benz is also advancing its work on responsible supply chains. By 2024, the company has assessed 65% of its 24 critical raw materials for environmental and human rights risks, aiming to complete full assessments by 2028. Despite the complexity of these supply and production transitions, tangible progress is evident: the company cut its production CO₂ emissions by 75% compared to 2018 and reduced waste for disposal in Europe to just 250 grams per vehicle.

Facing global economic uncertainties, Mercedes-Benz is not stepping back from its social commitments. Its updated HR strategy, “The Sustainable People Plan,” includes an expanded learning initiative — Turn2Learn — and voluntary personnel reduction programs, implemented without operational redundancies. Job guarantees in Germany have been extended through the end of 2034.

The automaker continues to focus on six strategic pillars: Decarbonisation, Resource Use & Circularity, Human Rights, Traffic Safety, Digital Trust, and People. As shown in the recent update, these priorities are far from theoretical — they are backed by systemic action, technological innovation, and long-term investment.

Source: mercedes-benz.com