Translated with AI from the Russian original.

Mercedes-Benz conducted an unusual crash test of the new CLA: a CLA Shooting Brake wagon with an electrified internal combustion engine crashed into the side of a fully electric CLA sedan. Both cars were moving at 56 km/h. The company states that this is the first public test of this type involving two moving production cars.

Mercedes-Benz crashed two CLAs at 56 km/h, testing passenger and battery protection
Image source: Chatgpt

The scenario simulated an intersection collision where one car strikes another in the side. Such accidents are particularly challenging for vehicle design: doors and sills have less space to absorb impact energy than the front of the body. Additionally, in an electric model, the high-voltage battery located in the lower part of the car must be protected.

According to Mercedes-Benz, after the collision, the passenger compartments of both cars remained intact. The test used eight dummies, representing four adults and four children. Sensor readings did not exceed established biomechanical limits, indicating a low risk of severe or life-threatening injuries under the conditions of this test.

Separate attention was paid to the consequences of the impact on the electric powertrain. The sedan's high-voltage battery remained intact and undamaged, and the system disconnected it from the drive. In the wagon, the fuel system was also automatically shut off to reduce the risk of fire.

The test demonstrated the operation of other safety features. The cars' retractable door handles activated after the impact, and the side windows opened. This is important for rescuers and passengers who may need to exit the car after an accident.

Mercedes-Benz emphasizes that the test was designed to verify the behavior of vehicles in a complex, real-world collision scenario. However, it does not replace independent safety assessments: standard programs, including Euro NCAP, use their own regulated methodologies and test conditions. The electric CLA previously received five Euro NCAP stars based on 2025 testing.

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