Mercedes-Benz GLA: series production of all-electric model begins
The new Mercedes-Benz GLA is now entering series production, with the dealer premiere scheduled for November. Initially, only all-electric variants will be built at the Rastatt plant, with hybrids and internal combustion models set to follow later in the year.
Production of the electric Mercedes-Benz GLA has begun
Image: Mercedes-Benz
With the new GLA, Mercedes-Benz is unifying the previously distinct naming conventions and designs for its different drivetrain types. While the Mercedes-Benz GLA previously referred to combustion-engine and hybrid models, the all-electric sibling was sold under the EQA designation. However, the EQA was no longer available to order as of April (link in German), with the final orders being processed at the Rastatt plant by June.
At the world premiere of the Mercedes-Benz GLA at the end of July, it became clear that this designation now also applies to the all-electric model. The battery-electric GLA is based on the MMA platform, offers a range of up to 657 km depending on the configuration, and supports charging at up to 320 kW. The compact electric SUV was available for order immediately at the world premiere, initially in three variants with prices starting from €48,599.
Mercedes-Benz GLA available at dealers from November
Now, the first deliveries and the dealer premiere are approaching, with Mercedes-Benz targeting November for both. Of course, this requires the all-electric GLA to be built first. Accordingly, the brand has now started series production of the new all-electric Mercedes-Benz GLA at the Rastatt plant. Notably, the production launch of the electric models is taking place even before the hybrid and combustion-engine variants.
“With the start of production of the new GLA and the investments in Rastatt, we’re strengthening the site’s role within the Mercedes-Benz global production network. The production process demonstrates how we are consistently utilising digital technologies: MB.OS, artificial intelligence and our MO360 production ecosystem are closely integrated and enable even more flexible and efficient production. I’d like to thank all my colleagues in Rastatt who, with their passion and innovative spirit,” said Michael Schiebe, Member of the Board of Management for Production.
Image: Mercedes-Benz
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Plant Manager Marco Zwick added: “With the GLA, another model from a completely new generation of vehicles is already rolling off the production line in Rastatt. The fact that the transformation of our plant and the start of production are going so smoothly is down to our team. They’re tackling challenging tasks with a high level of expertise, flexibility and passion. I am very proud of the Rastatt team and want to express my sincere thanks to all colleagues involved!”
A refurbished assembly hall
Currently, the new Mercedes-Benz GLA is being built in Assembly Hall 4.0. At the same time, the manufacturer is investing a ‘low’ three-digit million euro amount in the refurbishment of the adjacent Assembly Hall 4.1, where production of the model will take place from 2027. For this refurbishment, Mercedes-Benz is using a digital twin, which, according to the company, unlocks significant potential in terms of construction time and costs.
The Stuttgart-based automotive group also provides insights into the supply chain for the new Mercedes-Benz GLA: The electric drive units and axles come from Untertürkheim, including its Mettingen and Hedelfingen sub-plants. The high-voltage batteries are assembled by the subsidiary Accumotive in Kamenz, Saxony, which has over 13 years of experience in the efficient production of highly complex battery systems and serves as a centre of competence within the global battery production network, spanning locations across three continents.