Mercedes’ New Electric CLA: Great Price, Big Charging Catch

Mercedes has just revealed its latest electric CLA – a model that on paper looks very promising. Stylish, well-specified, and priced from around £40,000, it promises good range, modern features, and that prestige badge, so what is not to like? Well, there’s a big catch: it runs on an 800-volt charging system and, crucially, does not come with a 400-volt DC converter in its UK version. That decision creates real limitations for buyers.

What does 800V vs 400V mean?
Most of the UK’s rapid and ultra-rapid public chargers are built around a “400-volt” design. Cars with 800V systems can charge very quickly on compatible chargers, but they need special electronics to work with 400v chargers. Without that converter, the CLA can only use chargers that deliver 800V directly and those aren’t as common.

How does this affect UK drivers?
A large number of public rapid chargers in the UK are 400V based. They are the ones you’ll find at motorway services and retail parks offering 150–250 kW speeds. Because the CLA lacks the converter, it won’t work with most of these, leaving drivers reliant on home or workplace charging, the growing but still patchy network of 800V ultra-rapid chargers, and careful journey planning to make sure compatible chargers are within reach.

What is Mercedes doing about it?
Mercedes has confirmed that from spring 2026, UK-spec CLA models will include the 400V converter as standard. However, this won’t be retrofittable for earlier cars. Buyers who order before then may find themselves restricted in where they can top up on longer trips. Is the CLA worth considering?
For many drivers, yes. If most of your charging is done at home overnight, or you know you have good access to 800V rapid chargers, then the CLA still looks like a stylish and efficient choice at a competitive price point. But if you rely heavily on the public rapid charging network, the lack of 400V compatibility could prove to be a deal-breaker.

The bottom line: the new CLA is an exciting electric Mercedes at an attractive price, but make sure you understand where and how you will charge it before signing on the dotted line.

If you would like to get in touch or have a question you would like to be answered, then email me at events@nottinghamevs.co.uk