Mercedes-Benz GLA: Series production of electric vehicle begins in Rastatt
The new Mercedes-Benz GLA is now in mass production, with the dealer debut scheduled for November. Initially, only fully electric versions will be manufactured at the Rastatt plant, with hybrids and internal combustion engine models following later in the year.
Production of the electric Mercedes-Benz GLA has begun
Image: Mercedes-Benz
With the new GLA, Mercedes-Benz unifies the previously distinct naming conventions and designs for different powertrain types. While the Mercedes-Benz GLA previously represented internal combustion engine and hybrid models, its all-electric counterpart was known as the EQA. However, the EQA was no longer available for ordering in April, with final orders processed at the Rastatt plant through June.
At the world premiere of the Mercedes-Benz GLA at the end of July, it became clear that this name would now apply to the all-electric model as well. The electric GLA is built on the MMA platform, can travel up to 657 kilometers depending on the configuration, and charges at a rate of up to 320 kW. The compact electric SUV was available for ordering right at its world premiere, initially in three variants with prices starting at 48,599 euros.
Mercedes-Benz GLA Available at Dealerships Starting November
The first deliveries and the dealer launch that Mercedes-Benz aims for in November are approaching. Of course, this requires that the electric GLA be manufactured first. Accordingly, the brand has now begun mass production of the new all-electric Mercedes-Benz GLA at its Rastatt plant. In fact, production of the electric models will start even before that of the hybrids and internal combustion engines.
"With the start of production for the new GLA and our investments in Rastatt, we are strengthening the role of this location within Mercedes-Benz’s global production network. This manufacturing facility demonstrates how we consistently leverage digital technologies: MB.OS, artificial intelligence, and our MO360 production ecosystem are closely integrated to enable even more flexible and efficient manufacturing. I would like to thank all colleagues in Rastatt who, with passion and innovation, made this successful launch possible," says Production Director Michael Schiebe.
Image: Mercedes-Benz
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Plant manager Marco Zwick added, “With the GLA, another model from a completely new vehicle generation is rolling off the assembly line in Rastatt. The smooth transition of our plant and the successful start of production are thanks to our team’s efforts. We handle challenging tasks with high competence, flexibility, and passion. I am very proud of the Rastatt team and would like to extend my sincere thanks to all employees!”
Renovation of the assembly hall
The new Mercedes-Benz GLA is currently being built in assembly hall 4.0. Meanwhile, the manufacturer is investing a low three-digit million amount in renovating the adjacent assembly hall 4.1, where production of this model will take place starting in 2027. For this renovation, Mercedes-Benz uses a digital twin, which the company claims enables significant savings in construction time and costs.
The Stuttgart-based automobile company also provides insights into the supply chain of the new Mercedes-Benz GLA: The electric power units and axles come from Untertürkheim, which includes its manufacturing sites in Mettingen and Hedelfingen. The high-voltage batteries are assembled by the subsidiary Accumotive in Kamenz, Saxony, which has over 13 years of experience in efficiently producing highly complex battery systems and serves as a hub in the global battery production network that spans locations on three continents.