Can there be proof that technology from race cars is still tricking down to road cars that you can buy? The upcoming Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 could offer just that because it's rumoured that it will feature an electric supercharger system that helps it deliver over 400 horsepower without too much lag.
We have seen the new A45 or A50 on quite a few occasions already, but these happen to be spy shots of the CLA 45 model, which unlike the hatchback, will be offered stateside. Compared to the standard CLA, the 45 will come with bigger air intakes, larger wheels, lower suspension, a diffuser and four large exhaust tips. For extra downforce, AMG is also re-shaping the trunk lid.
Getting back to the concept of electric supercharging, a 48V battery should be powering a motor which feeds more cold air to the 2-litre engine, compensating for turbo lag. Mercedes needs this because it's hoping to deliver over 200 horsepower per litre of displacement.
In addition to that, the CLA 45 might have an electric motor between its 2.0-litre engine and 7-speed gearbox, just like the CLS 53. While this sounds over-complicated, Mercedes has promised something special and constantly talked about having more than 400 horsepower.Â
Plus, prices are pretty much guaranteed to go up significantly, as Mercedes is also working on a CLA 35 with 340 horsepower. With a 0 to 100 kmph time of 4 seconds or less, the CLA 45 will be way quicker than a Porsche Cayman costing similar money.
