Mercedes-Benz has implemented artificial intelligence (AI) on the production line of the new CLA.
A ‘triple-digit million euro’ amount was invested in the Rastatt factory in preparation for the production of the new model.
Modern production methods will allow for electric, hybrid, and internal-combustion powered vehicles to roll off the same line.
AI technology monitors painting processes in the top coat booths, with a 20% reduction in energy consumption, and allowing for faster ramp-up times.
Production of the new CLA will also see ‘MB.OS’ used for the first time – a technology that allows vehicle software to be installed directly from the cloud, instead of relying on hardware modules.
Jörg Burzer, management board member responsible for production, quality, and supply chain management at Mercedes-Benz, said: “The new CLA marks the start of another chapter in the more than 30-year success story of the Mercedes-Benz plant in Rastatt.
“CLA production underpins our digital, sustainable and flexible production strategy and shows how our production network works efficiently and hand in hand.
“I am proud of our dedicated team, which is driving progress in car production in Germany with passion and innovation across all locations.”
Like all Mercedes-Benz plants, the Rastatt plant is carbon neutral, while Rastatt uses 100% green energy, some of which is produced by solar panels located on-site.
In preparation for the production of the new CLA, the plant also received new, more energy efficient robots, which produce bodywork, as well as heat-recovering ventilation systems.
The production line now consumes 15GWh less energy per year.
After production is completed, vehicles for overseas markets will be transported to the port of Zeebrugge via electric lorries.
The new CLA is now available to order, with UK deliveries expected to begin this summer.
Electric models are available with up to 483 miles of range, with the hybrid model expected to follow later on.
Ola Källenius, chairman of the management board at Mercedes-Benz, said: “With the CLA, Mercedes-Benz is ushering in a new era.
“The best guarantee for the long-term success of electromobility is top-of-the-range products like the CLA.
“We as a company are investing to ensure that these can be ‘made in Germany.’ A key prerequisite to make this possible is that framework conditions remain competitive.”
