Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 tech deep-dive: The incredible lengths AMG went to making its new EV sound and feel like it’s powered by petrol. Should it have bothered?
First reported by EV Central ·
Image: EV Central
The quick read
- Mercedes-AMG recorded over 1600 samples of a petrol-powered A 45 S to replicate its sound in the new all-electric CLA 45
- The new CLA 45 is an all-electric vehicle that aims to mimic the feel of a petrol-powered car
- Mercedes-AMG's efforts to replicate the petrol-powered sound and feel in the CLA 45 are a unique approach to EV development
- The CLA 45's development highlights the challenges of creating an EV that appeals to petrol-powered car enthusiasts
For dealers: Australian dealers should take note of Mercedes-AMG's efforts to replicate the petrol-powered experience in the CLA 45, as it may impact consumer expectations and preferences in the local market
AI-assisted summary of the coverage below — check the original reporting before relying on specifics.
ADME commentary
The ADME angle
Mercedes-AMG's decision to record over 1600 samples of a petrol-powered A 45 S to replicate its sound in the new all-electric CLA 45 is a telling indication of the brand's desire to appeal to enthusiasts who are hesitant to make the switch to EVs
The CLA 45's development is a prime example of how OEMs are working to address the concerns of petrol-powered car enthusiasts, who often cite the lack of engine noise and character as a major drawback of EVs
The Sound of Performance
The use of recorded samples to replicate the sound of a petrol-powered engine is a clever solution, but it also raises questions about the authenticity of the driving experience, and whether it will be enough to convince die-hard petrolheads to make the switch to EVs
Competitor Response and Market Impact
Other OEMs, such as BMW and Audi, will likely be watching Mercedes-AMG's approach to EV development with interest, and may respond with their own unique solutions to appeal to petrol-powered car enthusiasts, potentially leading to a new wave of innovation in the EV segment
The CLA 45's pricing and positioning in the market will be crucial in determining its success, as it will need to compete with other high-performance EVs and petrol-powered cars in the same segment
Actionable Insights for Dealers
Dealers can take advantage of the CLA 45's unique features and marketing angle by emphasizing the car's performance capabilities and innovative technology, and by targeting enthusiasts who are looking for a unique driving experience, and this week, dealers can start by reviewing their marketing materials and sales scripts to ensure they are effectively communicating the CLA 45's value proposition to potential customers
Full coverage
Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 tech deep-dive: The incredible lengths AMG went to making its new EV sound and feel like it’s powered by petrol. Should it have bothered?
Read at EV Central →More from the newsroom
DEEPAL E07 Named CarExpert’s Best EV Large SUV
The DEEPAL S07 - A Family-Sized EV Worth a Proper Look
Xpeng Australia announces new-model onslaught to tackle Tesla, Zeekr
Subaru Solterra Sport Electric Vehicle | Subaru Australia
Xpeng X9 2026: Air-sprung luxury people mover priced from $89,900 to rival Denza D9 and Mercedes-Benz VLE
Alpine A110 EV Future is a goer: French battery-powered Porsche Boxster rival gears up for 2027 debut
The ADME Newsroom is a news aggregator. Headlines, excerpts and article images remain the property of their original publishers, are shown for the purpose of reporting news, and always link to and credit the original reporting. Items marked “file image” use manufacturer-supplied press imagery of the vehicle referenced; vehicle and brand names are trademarks of their respective owners.
Quick-read summaries and “ADME commentary” are our own, are clearly marked, and are general industry commentary — not financial, legal or purchasing advice. Summaries and commentary may be AI-assisted and can contain errors — always check the original reporting before relying on specifics. Publishers and manufacturers: for corrections, attribution changes or removal, contact advertising@adme.net.au and we'll action it promptly.