Mercedes-Benz CLA Electric Set for India Debut in 2026, Bookings Open March 10
The iconic Mercedes-Benz CLA nameplate is making a grand return to the Indian automotive landscape, but this time in a fully electric avatar. The upcoming Mercedes-Benz CLA Electric is confirmed to enter the Indian market in April 2026, marking a significant milestone in the luxury electric vehicle segment. Enthusiasts and potential buyers can mark their calendars, as bookings for this highly anticipated model will officially commence on March 10, 2026.
Premium EV Showdown: CLA Electric vs. BYD Seal
Upon its launch, the new electric sedan from Mercedes-Benz is poised to lock horns with established players in the premium EV space, most notably the BYD Seal, which is already available for sale in India. This sets the stage for an exciting rivalry, with both models vying for dominance in terms of cutting-edge specifications, exhilarating performance, and impressive driving range. Let's delve into a detailed comparison to see how these electric sedans stack up against each other.
Battery, Range, and Performance Specifications
The Mercedes-Benz CLA Electric will be introduced in the 250+ variant, equipped with a substantial 85 kWh battery pack. Mercedes-Benz claims a WLTP-certified range of up to 792 kilometers on a single charge, which is a standout figure in the electric vehicle domain. Power is delivered by an electric motor generating 272 horsepower, enabling the sedan to accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in a brisk 6.7 seconds. Additionally, the model supports DC fast charging capabilities of up to 240 kW, allowing it to add approximately 400 kilometers of range in under 20 minutes under optimal conditions.
In contrast, the BYD Seal offers a more varied lineup with three distinct variants: Dynamic, Premium, and Performance. The base Dynamic variant features a 61.44 kWh battery and a rear-mounted motor producing 204 hp, achieving a 0-100 kmph time of 7.5 seconds. Stepping up, the Premium variant utilizes a larger 82.56 kWh battery paired with a 313 hp rear motor, reducing the acceleration time to 5.9 seconds. The top-tier Performance variant employs the same 82.56 kWh battery but enhances performance with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, combining 218 hp at the front and 313 hp at the rear. This configuration makes it the quickest of the trio, boasting a claimed 0-100 kmph sprint in just 3.8 seconds.
Pricing and Market Positioning
When it comes to pricing, the BYD Seal currently starts at an ex-showroom price of Rs 41 lakh in India, positioning it as a competitive option in the premium electric sedan market. As for the Mercedes-Benz CLA Electric, the official pricing details are slated to be announced in April 2026, coinciding with its market launch. This pricing strategy will play a crucial role in determining how effectively the CLA Electric can challenge the BYD Seal and other rivals in the burgeoning Indian EV sector.
The introduction of the Mercedes-Benz CLA Electric is expected to significantly bolster the brand's electric portfolio in India, offering consumers a blend of luxury, performance, and sustainability. With advanced features like rapid charging and an extensive range, it aims to set new benchmarks in the electric vehicle industry. As the launch date approaches, automotive enthusiasts and eco-conscious buyers alike will be keenly watching how this electric sedan reshapes the competitive dynamics in India's premium EV market.
