160: Mercedes AMG CLA: Brand's Cheapest Sedan Turned Super Sports Sedan

The Mercedes-AMG CLA is a performance-focused version of Mercedes’ CLA sedan, with AMG tuning and hardware aimed at sharper acceleration and handling. In this episode, they’re discussing the new AMG CLA 45 variant and how it fits into Mercedes’ shift toward electrification.

DC fast charging graphs show how an EV’s charging speed changes over time while connected to a DC fast charger. They’re useful because many cars charge quickly at first, then slow down as the battery fills or temperatures change.

The Mercedes-Benz CLA (C117) is a compact four-door coupe-style sedan, known for its sporty look and relatively efficient everyday size. The episode frames it as “car of the year” and then shifts to the new Mercedes-AMG CLA 45, 4Matic, plus, indicating a performance-focused variant. It’s discussed because the CLA line is often a gateway into Mercedes-AMG performance in a smaller package.

An “all-electric C-Class” refers to Mercedes’ plan to move the C-Class lineup to a battery-electric powertrain. The key idea is that it’s not just an engine swap—it’s designed around electric components and packaging from the ground up.

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a long-running compact executive sedan/estate lineup from Mercedes-Benz. In this episode, the discussion focuses on an all-electric C-Class and how it could be important for the brand’s lineup going forward. It’s a headline-worthy topic because electrifying a major legacy model can affect how many people experience electric vehicles in the mainstream segment.

The MBEA platform is Mercedes-Benz’s electric vehicle architecture used to build battery-electric models. A platform like this defines the core layout—battery placement, motor mounting, and structural design—so multiple EVs can share engineering foundations.

Front axle motors means the electric drive motors are mounted to the front axle. This layout affects traction, steering feel, and how the car distributes torque between axles.

A front axle disconnect is a drivetrain feature that can disengage the front axle under certain conditions. On EVs, it’s used to reduce mechanical drag and improve efficiency when full-time AWD isn’t needed.

“Usable” battery capacity is the portion of the battery’s total energy that the car actually allows you to access. “94 kilowatt hours” is the EV’s effective battery size for real-world driving, not just a theoretical maximum.

WLTP (Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure) is a standardized testing method used to estimate a car’s fuel economy and electric range. When a manufacturer quotes a WLTP range, it’s meant to be comparable across models, though real-world range can still vary with speed, weather, and charging behavior.

A DC fast charger supplies direct current at high power to recharge an EV quickly. The charger’s power rating (like the kilowatts mentioned) strongly influences how fast the battery can accept energy, especially during the early part of a charge session.

Kilowatts (kW) measure charging power—how quickly energy can flow into the battery. Higher kW generally means faster charging, but the car may still limit the rate depending on battery temperature and state of charge.

A “94 kilowatt hour pack” is the battery capacity—how much electrical energy the EV’s high-voltage battery can store. Larger capacity usually supports longer range, but charging speed also depends on the car’s battery chemistry, thermal management, and how much power the battery can accept at a given moment.

In EV discussions, “form factor” means the vehicle’s body style and layout—like sedan vs SUV—and how that shape affects aerodynamics, packaging, and efficiency. A more aerodynamic shape can reduce drag and help an EV travel farther on the same battery.

The BYD Seal is a battery-electric sedan from BYD, discussed in the episode as a “big saloon” with a new charging-related headline. The mention of “SEAL 08” suggests the conversation is about a specific updated or related model and its charging capabilities. It’s brought up because BYD’s EVs are often covered for their feature set and how they position charging and value.

“Aero” is shorthand for aerodynamics—how easily air flows around the car. Better aerodynamics reduce drag, which is especially important for EVs because efficiency directly impacts range.

Megawatt charging is an EV charging concept where the charger can deliver power on the order of one megawatt (1,000 kW). The segment uses it as a benchmark for “headline” charging speeds, while questioning whether that translates into meaningful real-world benefit for typical short stops.

The Ford Flex is a distinctive, boxy full-size crossover/people-hauler known for its roomy interior and unique styling. In the episode, it’s mentioned alongside a technical discussion about “three actual flex motors,” which appears to be a wordplay or reference to the car’s name rather than its drivetrain. It comes up because it’s memorable and different-looking compared with typical crossovers.

“Flex motors” here refers to a specific EV motor setup described as “three actual flex motors,” implying multiple electric motors used to generate traction and power. The hosts connect it to Mercedes-AMG’s prior use of a similar “actual flux” technology, suggesting a motors-and-inverter design aimed at high output.

The Mercedes-Benz AMG GT is a high-performance sports car from Mercedes-AMG, built for track-capable driving and strong acceleration. The podcast mentions it having “three actual flex motors,” which points to a specific technical setup being discussed. It’s brought up because its engineering details and performance layout make it a frequent topic in enthusiast conversations.

0-60 time is the elapsed time for a car to accelerate from 0 mph to 60 mph, commonly used as a quick measure of straight-line acceleration. The hosts cite a figure around 3.9 seconds to communicate how “super sports sedan” quick the Mercedes-AMG CLA is expected to feel.

0–62 mph (often written as “0–60” in the US) is a common acceleration benchmark: how many seconds it takes to go from a standstill to 62 mph. It’s used to compare how quickly different cars feel in real-world “get up and go” situations.

The Tesla Model S Plaid is a high-performance electric sedan known for extremely fast acceleration, which is why it’s used here as the benchmark. The host cites its roughly 1.9–2.0 second 0–60 performance to show how the Mercedes-AMG CLA’s acceleration compares within the “quickest cars” conversation.

A shooting brake is a specific body style: typically a two-door (or coupe-like) wagon with a more sloped rear roofline than a traditional station wagon. Here, the host says the CLA lineup also gets a shooting-brake variant, described as having a station-wagon shape.

An “800-volt” electrical system refers to the high-voltage architecture used in some modern EVs. Higher voltage can reduce current for the same power, which helps enable faster charging and more efficient power delivery (assuming the charger and vehicle support it).

“Supply chains” are the network of companies and logistics that move parts and materials from suppliers to manufacturers and then to dealers. If supply chains are disrupted or inefficient, repairs can take longer because parts don’t arrive when needed.

“Spare parts” are replacement components used to repair a vehicle after wear or damage. For less-established brands—especially newer imports—availability can be slower or more expensive, which affects how quickly owners can get cars back on the road.

The Polestar 4 is an electric SUV from Polestar, positioned as a more performance-oriented, stylish alternative in the brand’s lineup. The episode notes its launch timing (“on the 2nd of September”), which indicates the discussion is centered on availability and what to expect when it arrives. It’s relevant because new EV launches often bring fresh battery, charging, and tech updates to the market.

The Rivian R2 is an upcoming Rivian electric vehicle (EV) that’s being discussed here specifically in terms of real-world DC fast-charging performance. The key point is the charging time from 10% to 80%, which is a major factor in whether an EV feels practical on trips.

A highway range test is a real-world EV efficiency test performed at highway speeds to estimate how far the vehicle can go on a charge. Unlike idealized lab cycles, it reflects factors like aerodynamic drag, sustained speed, and real driving conditions.

800 volt architecture is an EV electrical design that allows higher power transfer during charging, often enabling faster charging with the right charger. In practice, it can reduce current for the same power, which helps with charging speed and thermal management.

A charging curve describes how charging power (and thus speed) changes as the battery state of charge increases. Most EVs taper—meaning they charge quickly at first and then reduce power to protect the battery as it fills.

Amps (current) are part of how fast a DC fast charger can deliver energy to an EV. Higher allowable current can enable faster charging—though the vehicle and battery management system ultimately limit it.

State of charge (SoC) is the battery’s current charge level, expressed as a percentage of its usable capacity. EV charging speed and behavior are strongly tied to SoC, which is why benchmarks like “10 to 80” reference it.

Tapering down is the reduction in charging power as the battery approaches higher state of charge. It’s a normal EV behavior driven by battery chemistry and thermal limits to protect the pack and extend battery life.

OTA (over-the-air) updates are software updates delivered wirelessly to a vehicle. EV makers use them to improve features and sometimes adjust charging behavior, such as optimizing charging curves.

Wheel size can affect EV range because larger wheels often increase rolling resistance and can change aerodynamic drag. Here, the host notes they didn’t test the Rivian R2 with 21-inch wheels, which matters when comparing range results.

All-terrain tires are designed to handle mixed surfaces, but they can be less efficient than highway-focused tires. That efficiency difference can show up as reduced EV range, which is why the host calls out the tire type used in their test.

Charging taper is when a fast charger’s power delivery drops as the battery fills up. That’s why early minutes can be strong, but the rate slows after a certain state of charge.

Home charging refers to charging an EV at the driver’s residence, typically using Level 2 equipment. It reduces reliance on public DC Fast Charging for daily driving.

Multifamily dwellings are apartment-style housing where residents may not have dedicated parking or personal charging access. This affects EV charging availability and often increases dependence on public fast charging.

Tire size and type affect EV efficiency and range. Larger wheels (like 21-inch) can increase rolling resistance, and all-season tires are a compromise between grip and efficiency compared with more specialized low-rolling-resistance tires.

EPA rated range is the distance an EV is expected to travel under EPA’s standardized testing cycle. It’s a comparable benchmark across vehicles, but it may not match your specific driving conditions.

This describes an EV range test at steady highway speeds (70–80 mph). Higher speeds increase aerodynamic drag and energy use, so range drops compared with slower driving; the segment uses this to estimate how much range you can expect.

EGMP refers to Hyundai Motor Group’s Electric-Global Modular Platform, a shared EV platform used across multiple Hyundai/Kia models. The host uses it as a benchmark for fast-charging time targets (like 10–80% under 20 minutes).

MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) is the sticker price automakers set before taxes, registration, and dealer-specific add-ons. In the segment, the host argues Rivian needed to keep MSRP down to make the R2 feel affordable for mass-market buyers.

A “400 volt architecture” means the EV’s electrical system is designed around a ~400V battery and power electronics. This affects charging and power delivery—higher-voltage systems can move more energy with less current, which can help with fast-charging efficiency and component sizing.

A Tesla connector refers to the plug standard Tesla uses for charging. The episode implies the Rivian R2 needs that connector (or at least Tesla-compatible hardware) because of how its charging current and voltage requirements line up with the available charging equipment.

Amperage (current) is how much electricity flows into the battery during charging. Higher amperage can enable faster charging, but it also requires chargers and cables designed to safely deliver that current.

Charging infrastructure is the network of chargers and supporting systems that deliver electricity to EVs. The host argues that when multiple automakers use different voltage/current requirements, it becomes harder for third-party infrastructure providers to tailor equipment for every “edge case” vehicle.

Edge case vehicles are EVs with charging requirements that don’t fit neatly into the most common charger configurations. The host’s point is that accommodating these outliers can cost more for charger operators, so networks must decide whether it’s worth the expense.

The IANA network is referenced as the charging network being discussed at the end of the segment. The context suggests it’s related to how charging equipment is standardized and deployed across different EV brands and electrical requirements.

Alpetronic is a manufacturer/vendor name for EV charging hardware. In this context, it’s tied to the charging network’s equipment choices, which can matter for compatibility with different EV charging voltage/current needs.

NAC here refers to Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS) connector. On a charger with both standards, the “NAC side” is the Tesla-style plug side and its maximum current capability.

CCS (Combined Charging System) is the dominant DC fast-charging standard in North America. Saying “CCS side” refers to the CCS connector portion of a dual-standard charger, and how much current (amps) that connector can deliver.

The ABB A400 is a DC fast-charging platform rated around 400 kW. The segment highlights a connector-dependent limitation: its NACS side can deliver less current (375 amps) than its CCS side (600 amps).

A “liquid-cooled” connector uses coolant to manage heat under high-current charging. The segment says the ABB connector they chose is not liquid cooled, which can cap how much current it can safely deliver on the NACS side.

A “native NACS port” means the vehicle is designed to accept the NACS connector directly, without needing an adapter. The host uses this to explain why they specifically searched for a charger with a Tesla-style plug when charging the R2.

A CCS1 adapter is a connector adapter intended to let a vehicle use CCS charging hardware through a CCS1-style interface. The speaker claims there are no CCS1 adapters rated for 600 A, which would be needed for their target charging conditions.

CCS2-to-NACS adapters are used to connect a CCS2-style plug to a NACS-compatible vehicle/port (or vice versa, depending on the setup). The speaker carries them as a workaround in case the primary adapter causes charging derates or faults.

A derate is when a charger or adapter reduces its output (often current or power) to protect hardware from overheating or to meet safety limits. The speaker expects that if derating starts, they can stop and swap adapters.

J3400 is a connector specification related to the newer generation of Tesla-compatible charging hardware. The speaker says the redesigned adapter they sell is “J3400 compliant,” implying it meets updated electrical/thermal requirements.

CCS-1 and NACS are two different EV charging plug/port standards. A “CCS-1 to NACS adapter” lets an EV that uses CCS-1 connect to a charger that uses the NACS plug.

UL 2252 is a safety certification standard for EV charging equipment/adapters. Using an adapter certified to UL 2252 is meant to reduce the risk of overheating or unsafe electrical behavior.

In this context, “overboost” means the adapter can temporarily exceed its normal current rating for a limited time. It implies the hardware has a short-term thermal/electrical headroom, not unlimited high-current capability.

This refers to a charging adapter associated with Tesla’s NACS ecosystem. The speaker says a Tesla adapter melted and smelled like burning, which is why they switched to another adapter afterward.

A CCS connector is the physical plug/interface used for CCS charging. The speaker’s concern is specifically about damage to the connector’s pins, which can happen if the adapter/connection overheats under high current.

Walmart is mentioned as the site operator sending someone to a charger location. The context is confirming whether the CCS connector pins were damaged after the adapter incident.

R2 is a specific electric vehicle model referenced in the segment. The speaker is talking about how owners might buy low-cost charging adapters online and use them on public charging networks.

“Nax adapter” here refers to an adapter that claims to convert between charging plug standards. Adapters are meant to let a vehicle use a different connector type, but their safety and electrical compatibility can vary widely.

This phrase is used conversationally to refer to electric vehicles and their charging ecosystem. In context, it’s about how charging networks and retailers react when low-quality adapters appear on their infrastructure.

Electrify America is a major U.S. DC fast-charging network operator. In the segment, it’s mentioned as one of the parties concerned about the costs and risks of low-quality adapters used on their chargers.

“Liability issue” here means responsibility for damage or failures caused by using non-approved charging accessories. In practice, that affects whether the automaker or charging network will cover repairs if something goes wrong.

“Terms of use” are the rules published by charging networks that govern what equipment you’re allowed to use at their stations. Violating them—like using an adapter that isn’t permitted—can put you outside coverage or support policies.

LFP stands for lithium iron phosphate, a battery chemistry known for strong safety and long cycle life. The speaker links LFP to faster charging behavior and compares its charge-time performance to other chemistries like BYD’s.

“0 to 97%” is a charging test window that measures how long it takes to fill a battery from empty to near-full. EV charging is usually fastest at lower states of charge and slows as the battery approaches full, so the exact endpoint matters when comparing cars or battery chemistries.

The McMurtry Spearling is a purpose-built electric “fan car” that uses a powerful suction fan system to pull the vehicle down for extreme traction. The key idea is that it can generate downforce by sucking itself to the ground, and the speaker claims it could even drive on the ceiling.

“Slick size” refers to the tire size/fitment for track-only slick tires, which have no tread pattern for maximum contact patch. Larger or wider slicks typically help generate more grip for high-speed cornering and braking.

“Track-focused design” describes a vehicle engineered primarily for circuit use—optimized for grip, stability, and repeatable lap performance rather than everyday comfort or mixed-road practicality. The segment reinforces this by talking about driving it on a test track and having a test driver evaluate it.

“Electric power” here means the car is driven by an electric powertrain rather than a gasoline or diesel engine. That changes how power is delivered (instant torque) and how the car’s traction and control feel at the limit.

The Goodwood Festival of Speed is a major UK motorsport and car culture event held at Goodwood, famous for hill climbs and high-profile vehicle debuts. Automakers often use it to showcase new performance cars and concept tech to a highly engaged enthusiast crowd.

Denza is a Chinese EV brand associated with BYD’s ecosystem, positioned as a more premium alternative within the Chinese EV market. The host mentions it as part of BYD’s UK unveiling activity at Goodwood.

A plug-in hybrid is a hybrid car that can be charged from an external power source, typically using a battery for electric driving for part of the trip. It still has an internal-combustion engine, so it’s not purely electric.

The Fiat Topolino is a tiny city EV/plug-in microcar concept tied to the Citroën Ami formula: minimal size, low speed, and short-range practicality. In this segment, the host focuses on its US pricing and battery/range specs, framing it as an affordable entry into EV ownership.

The Citroën Ami is a small, low-speed electric vehicle designed for short-distance urban mobility. The episode highlights its price and key specs like roughly 46 miles of range and a 5.4 kWh battery pack, which are central to how it fits everyday use. It’s discussed because it’s an entry-level EV concept aimed at making electrified driving more accessible.

“600 amp adapters” refers to very high-current charging hardware, which would be needed for certain fast-charging setups. The host’s joke implies the car’s charging needs are modest compared with those extreme adapter requirements.

AC charging means the car charges using alternating current from the power source, with the vehicle typically handling the conversion to the battery’s required form. It’s common for home charging, but it’s usually slower than DC fast charging.

A golf cart is a small, low-speed vehicle commonly used on golf courses and in some neighborhoods or private communities. In places like Florida, they’re often used for short trips, but rules about where they can be driven vary by location.

An open-roof golf cart is configured without a full enclosed cabin, so it relies on airflow rather than HVAC. That makes it feel cooler in mild weather, but in hot, humid climates like Florida it can be uncomfortable without proper ventilation.

Gated communities are residential areas with controlled access (often for security and traffic management). They frequently have internal rules about vehicle use, which can make golf carts more common for short local trips.

Private communities are residential areas where vehicle use may be restricted to internal roads rather than public streets. That matters because low-speed vehicles may be allowed only in these controlled environments.

“Destination” is a line-item charge on a vehicle’s price that covers shipping the car to the dealer. It’s separate from the vehicle’s base price and can affect the out-the-door cost.

All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are small off-road vehicles designed to handle rough surfaces like dirt, grass, and gravel. They’re typically used for trails and property use rather than normal street driving.

Knobby tires have raised tread blocks meant to grip loose or uneven surfaces. The larger, more aggressive tread helps traction in mud, dirt, and gravel compared with smooth street tires.

A “plastic key” here refers to the physical key fob/remote being mostly plastic rather than a heavier, more premium-feeling key. The host is using it as a proxy for perceived build quality and “feel,” which can affect how convincing the car feels as a real product.