Technology transfer from VISION EQXX to Concept CLA Class
- High-voltage electric-drive system and heat pump deliver outstanding class-defining efficiency
- Further implementation of award-winning bionic optimization of cast components
- "Inside-out development" approach facilitated by advanced digital simulation techniques
By implementing the vision for the future of Mercedes-Benz in this segment, engineers continue to draw on many valuable findings from the original Mercedes-Benz electric hypermiler, the VISION EQXX, which continues to set the technology benchmark for this vehicle class. In addition to the mini-LED MBUX Superscreen with thousands of local dimming zones, these range from electric-drive and thermal efficiency measures to lightweight design through bionic optimization to the application of sustainable materials.
The VISION EQXX technology program was conceived to push boundaries and exercise immediate influence on series development. Hence, the next-generation electric drive unit (comprising the electric motor, transmission and power electronics) is directly derived from the highly efficient unit in the VISION EQXX and features a new generation of silicon carbides in the power electronics. Likewise, the high-voltage battery uses the same principles of functional integration and cell packaging to achieve an exceptionally high energy density. Another innovation transfer is the further developed heat pump, which already impressively demonstrated its effectiveness in the VISION EQXX program. In a marked improvement over existing automotive heat pumps on the market, it extracts heat not only from the drivetrain but also from the ambient outside air – even at sub-zero temperatures – to heat the cabin of the Concept CLA Class. Together with an intelligent operating strategy, the heat pump can contribute significantly to electric range during cold winter weather by minimizing the use of additional heating.
Bionic engineering was a substantive feature of the VISION EQXX development program. The Mercedes-Benz BioniCast name applies to structural castings engineered according to the principles of nature. This pioneering digital approach has already garnered Mercedes-Benz prestigious industry awards as the company rolls out its implementation in series production. A number of components in the MMA platform have been optimized using these techniques. Specific examples include the rear-axle console, battery console and suspension components.
The use of digital engineering techniques was a key element in the speed and efficiency of the VISION EQXX development program. The Mercedes-Benz World of Digital Twins is a far-reaching strategy to transition to a "physical follows digital" approach across all aspects of development and beyond. The Concept CLA Class and MMA platform are engineered in accordance with that strategy. This helped to facilitate the radical "inside-out development" applied to the Concept CLA Class. Virtual simulation techniques allowed designers and engineers to focus even more on the customer perspective in a feedback loop of continuous improvement.
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MB.OS – the digital foundation for Mercedes-Benz
- Proprietary chip-to-cloud architecture elevates customer experience through software-driven innovation
- Every vehicle on the MMA platform comes with a supercomputer integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning
- Advanced driver assistance systems supported by OTA updates
The vision for the Mercedes-Benz of tomorrow redefines the car itself, elevating it beyond its role as a mode of transportation, assistant or companion. It becomes an entertainment and gaming center, a productivity zone, a private oasis, even part of a server farm and the energy grid – an integral part of life. To achieve this vision by leveraging the full potential of current and future software-driven innovation, Mercedes-Benz is developing its own operating system MB.OS. This proprietary chip-to-cloud architecture represents a completely new approach for the company and will be a largely hidden yet defining aspect of all its future vehicles. The core of MB.OS is to decouple hardware and software and to make software development faster and more adaptable. This facilitates the constant follow of innovation into vehicles, resulting in a better product for customers. A proprietary system developed in-house in close collaboration with strong partners provides the company with the freedom and flexibility to innovate as well as the ability to act fast and efficiently.
The forthcoming MMA platform will be the first to run fully on MB.OS. The Concept CLA Class offers a taste of what this will mean for customers. To stress the central role played by MB.OS in shaping the customer experience, the interior of the show car offers a striking visualization of it. The complex multi-faceted architecture is represented here by one of its many hardware components, the high-performance water-cooled chip from collaboration partner NVIDIA. This powerful partnership will help equip every vehicle built on the MMA platform with a supercomputer. MB.OS uses artificial intelligence and machine learning powered by the latest-generation chips and system-on-chips (SoCs) and is supported by highly advanced sensors and the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud.
Advanced MBUX Superscreen delivers new level of personalization leveraged with real-time graphics
MB.OS elevates the family of vehicles at the gateway to the Mercedes-Benz brand through software and artificial intelligence (AI): One example is a unique UI/UX tailored not only to the car but also the customer's individual preferences. It pairs the advanced three-display MBUX Superscreen in the Concept CLA Class with ambient light and sound to provide an immersive luxury experience for driver and passenger previously unheard of in this class of vehicle. Ambient styles with a range of themes for all three screens offer a further level of customization, while the virtual assistant is on hand to support users with information and suggestions.
The MBUX Superscreen comes to life with advanced real-time graphics powered by game engine technology, as in the VISION EQXX. The instrument cluster adapts to user needs, including the level of driver assistance. In so doing, the intelligent system communicates with more than just data, incorporating shapes and light into an intuitive dialogue. This ensures the driver has a clear overview of all relevant information without overload. From the dynamic virtual cockpit that helps optimize driving style for maximum range to the 3D navigation with integrated information on points of interest, they have everything they need when they need it.
Users can also create their own personal space with beautifully depicted immersive worlds. Extensive adaptation options through dynamic digital skinning enable them to individualize their experience and self-expression in an instant. Crystal-clear resolution and vibrant color rendering result in an overall effect that takes the MBUX Superscreen beyond in-car display to create a multi-media experience. Entertainment is provided courtesy of extensive integration of top-quality third-party apps. Beyond this, the MBUX Collectibles feature enables the creation of a private art gallery by connecting the customer's personal NFT wallet and enabling them to browse an exhibition curated by Mercedes-Benz. MB.OS also brings class-leading passenger entertainment into this new vehicle family with a range of third-party video streaming options available only to the passenger while the car is traveling. Numerous layers of safety, including eye-tracking technology, ensure the driver is not distracted.
Concept CLA Class with enhanced SAE Level 2 performance thanks to LiDAR
As with all technical innovations, the company measures those in the Concept CLA Class by the contribution they make to the Mercedes-Benz vision of accident-free driving. The extensive driver assistance and safety systems under development for the MMA platform make it possible, for example, to drive partially automated (SAE Level 2) on virtually all types of roads, to aid the driver when changing lanes on multi-lane roads, to automatically maneuver into and out of tight parking spaces, and to prevent or reduce the severity of collisions in an increasing number of situations.
Automated driving systems in vehicles based on the MMA platform will offer best-in-class driver assistance. The MMA platform heralds an extensive sensor set that maintains Mercedes-Benz's leading position in this field. In addition to multiple cameras facilitating surround, wide and tele views, the base set also includes a full range of radar and ultrasonic sensors.
Future SAE Level 2 applications are also prepared for the use of LiDAR-supplemented sensing technology to meet the high operational complexities and safety demands of urban traffic. In this segment, these powerful sensors will enable customers to equip their vehicle with a wide range of SAE Level 2 features. It will be possible to enhance these via over-the-air updates, even after vehicle purchase. This also means that Mercedes-Benz will be able to continually improve existing systems and make them available to customers (taking account of local legislative frameworks), thereby ensuring their cars remain at the very forefront of innovation in the segment. The MB.OS software and its computing power is generally ready for an SAE Level 3 system upgrade for vehicles equipped with a comprehensive sensor set including a LiDAR sensor and redundancies for vital vehicle systems.
Advanced Child Presence Detection system
A further benefit of the MB.OS architecture: The ability to facilitate an extremely high degree of networking of vehicle systems, sensors and actuators makes it easier for Mercedes-Benz to develop and implement highly sophisticated safety functions. One example is the new Child Presence Detection (CPD) system. It is designed to mitigate the risk of young children being accidentally left in a car during warm weather – and the associated, sometimes tragic, consequences.
Based on a network of more than 20 system interfaces, the future system is activated when it detects the presence of a child in the vehicle through their distinctive breathing pattern. The sensors involved are so sensitive, they can even detect the gentle breathing of a sleeping newborn baby. Meanwhile, cameras can detect the presence of an adult e.g. in the passenger seat. When the system determines a child is in a parked car, it alerts the driver as soon as the motor is switched off. Should the driver leave and lock the vehicle, this the triggers an escalation process. If the vehicle and the smartphone are connected with the same Mercedes me account, the system sends messages to the smartphone at frequent intervals.
Meanwhile, the system also monitors the car's interior temperature. Should it exceed a critical point, a process of measures kicks in: the car's exterior lights flash accompanied by an acoustic signal. Designed to attract bystanders towards the vehicle, the signal differs from the shrill claxon of a typical car alarm. At the same time, the car's air conditioning kicks in to reduce the cabin temperature to a less critical level. Warning messages are also sent at this point to all smartphones registered to the vehicle and connected with the same Mercedes me account. The final escalation stage is to notify the Mercedes-Benz SOS call center and/or alert the emergency services.
With safety the top priority, the focus is on the prevention of tragic accidents, with the system specifically configured to avoid intentional use for stationary air conditioning.
MB.OS – the road ahead
The digital possibilities presented by MB.OS are considerable and far-reaching: For vehicles based on the MMA platform, they promise a level of individualization, seamless interaction and infotainment previously unheard-of in this segment. It will help the brand with the three-pointed star elevate the digital experience with an even more intense focus on the customer. The Concept CLA Class offers a glimpse of that, with more to come in the near future.
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Putting Ambition 2039 on the road – sustainability and circularity
- Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA) reduces value-chain CO2 by more than 40 percent
- Decarbonizing the supply chain with almost CO2-free steel and CO2-reduced aluminum
- Sustainably produced and processed leather and recycled materials highly functional and extremely attractive
Mercedes-Benz is fully committed to its Ambition 2039, which aims to achieve net carbon neutrality along the entire value chain in its fleet of new vehicles in 2039. This not only applies to the supply chain but also informs the company's strategy and mindset that the future of mobility must be sustainable. This approach as well as being all-electric is also underpinned by the circular economy. All of this supports the goal of Mercedes-Benz's to build the world's most desirable cars. The MMA platform underpins the first family of vehicles designed from the very start to the principles set out in Ambition 2039. It reduces value-chain CO2 by more than 40 percent over the entire MMA fleet compared to the previous architecture. The Concept CLA Class represents the firstborn of this new family.
Innovative interior trim
When creating the interior of the Concept CLA Class, Mercedes-Benz designers had the goal of leading by example when they placed sustainability and circularity at the top of their priority list. These crucial topics were equally as important as first-class visual and tactile qualities, resistance to wear and tear and safety criteria. Appearing for the first time in a Mercedes-Benz is an innovative paper material made from recycled cellulose – targeted for series-production. As a trim element, it provides a strikingly progressive look & feel with great design flexibility. It is produced using renewable energies and innovative sustainable technologies such as ozone water purification and generates zero landfill waste.
The seats themselves are upholstered in sustainably produced and processed leather. This takes into account everything from livestock breeding to the tanning process. In addition to compliance with the Animal Welfare Committee's "5 Freedoms of Animal Welfare", requirements also stipulate that the leather supply chain must be free from any form of illegal deforestation and that grazing areas must not contribute to the endangerment or loss of natural forests. The leather itself is tanned using vegetable-based tanning agents such as coffee bean husks, chestnuts or extracts from other renewable raw materials. Furthermore, the leather may only be processed in tanneries that are certified according to the Gold Standard of the ‘Leather Working Group'. This includes important environmental aspects such as reducing the use of water, energy, and chemicals in the tanning process.
The floor mats in the Concept CLA Class are woven from bamboo fiber, while the door pockets are edged in a biotechnology-based and certified vegan, high-strength, hardwearing silk-like fabric. Both materials were first showcased in the VISION EQXX. They are not only highly functional but also extremely attractive with luxurious tactile qualities. Meanwhile, the polyester textile upholstery on the floating center armrest is made from recycled PET.
Beneath the skin of the Concept CLA Class
Cutting the carbon footprint of steel and aluminum: Beneath the beautiful exterior of the Concept CLA Class lies a consistent push to decarbonize the supply chain for the next generation of cars in this segment. The advancements made in the electric-drive system to improve the sustainability of the battery and the electric drive unit (see above) represent just one aspect of a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach.
With steel and aluminum among the major contributors to the carbon footprint of the vehicle production process, Mercedes-Benz has set clear emissions-reduction targets through decarburization of focus materials, increased recycled content and the use of renewable energies. This is also an important part of the meaning behind "defining class". During the development process for almost CO2-free steel and CO2-reduced aluminum, the materials and resulting components are carefully examined and extensively tested to ensure they meet stringent Mercedes-Benz crash safety standards.
In Europe, the company is striving to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the steel in 50 percent of in-house pressed parts used in its entry vehicles. This would lead to a saving of around 220 pounds of CO2 per vehicle. In addition to recycled steel produced in electric-arc furnaces powered by renewable energy, the material mix will include steel derived from direct reduction using green hydrogen, phasing in over vehicle lifecycle depending on availability.
The MMA platform also accelerates the strong progress Mercedes-Benz is making in the use of CO2-reduced aluminum. In Europe, at least one third of the aluminum in the upcoming electric model generation will be produced with renewable energy. Applications cover a wide range of components from the wheels to the battery housing. This will lower the CO2 footprint of this aluminum by a minimum 40 percent compared to aluminum used in Europe, equating to a reduction of around 300 kilograms of CO2 emissions per vehicle. On the path towards a fully responsible aluminum supply chain, the company will significantly increase the share in future models of aluminum certified according to the standards of the Aluminum Stewardship Initiative (ASI). Currently, the aluminum sheet for in-house press parts is sourced from ASI-certified suppliers.
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Production – optimized by digital technology and artificial intelligence
Production of MMA vehicles will initially begin in Rastatt (Germany), Keckskemet (Hungary) and Beijing (China). With the MMA platform, Mercedes-Benz is pioneering new production techniques to incorporate its electrified new product portfolio. Due to an updated MO360 digital production system, the Mercedes-Benz plant in Rastatt, Germany, will introduce MMA vehicles virtually, with the help of digital twins. Using a "digital first" approach, Mercedes-Benz can ensure that the new production line can be retooled, configured and optimized at the brownfield site using high-precision digital simulation techniques. The exact location of robots, supply routes and production lines can be determined without having to disrupt the production of current compact models, which include the A-Class and B-Class, the GLA and EQA. The "digital first" approach enables a faster ramp-up, creates cost savings and opens up new opportunities for improving efficiency and quality.
The MO360 production system allows Mercedes-Benz to produce electric, hybrid and petrol models on the same production line and to scale the manufacturing of electric vehicles in line with market demand. Also, due to the introduction of MB.OS in production, cars will roll off the production line with the most up-to-date versions of vehicle software. Furthermore, an update of MO360 allows for the roll out of artificial intelligence in new areas. Already in May this year, Mercedes-Benz started a ChatGPT project within the MO360 digital production ecosystem to help optimize production processes and accelerate error identification. Through "Data Democratization", vital production data can be accessed by a broader range of employees. They can use it to evaluate processes and errors in real time. The new hall in Rastatt for the MMA platform is also a pilot for AI-based energy savings of up to 20 percent.
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About Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA), headquartered in Atlanta, is responsible for the distribution, marketing and customer service for all Mercedes-Benz products in the United States. MBUSA offers drivers the most diverse lineup in the luxury segment with 18 model lines ranging from the sporty GLA SUV to the flagship S-Class and the dynamic all-electric Mercedes-EQ family. MBUSA is also responsible for Mercedes-Benz Vans in the U.S. More information on MBUSA and its products can be found at
www.mbusa.com and
www.mbvans.com.
