Mercedes has confirmed its new CLA EV won’t support 400V DC charging, potentially making it incompatible with many public chargers across the UK.
The upcoming electric saloon, which boasts nearly 500 miles of range and charging speeds up to 320kW, uses 800V architecture but lacks the onboard converter needed for compatibility with 400V devices.
This means the CLA won’t work with numerous rapid and ultra-rapid chargers operating at 400V. While newer ultra-rapid chargers delivering 350kW or more use 800V systems, older units – even those offering up to 250kW – typically rely on less expensive 400V technology.
According to Zapmap, there are 15,874 public chargers in the UK capable of delivering more than 50kW. Half of these provide 150kW or more, but it remains unclear how many use the latest 800V systems versus older 400V units.
The issue first appeared on Mercedes’ German website configurator, which warned “charging at 400V charging stations is not possible.” Mercedes UK subsequently confirmed this limitation to EV Powered.
“For the new CLA the focus is on high-power charging infrastructure, and the share of 800-volt DC fast-charging stations in the entire charging network is constantly increasing,” a Mercedes spokesperson said.
They added that the car’s navigation system will only direct drivers to compatible charging stations and will update with new locations “almost in real time.”
The decision to omit a converter is likely cost-related, with Mercedes assuming owners will primarily charge at home using standard AC wallboxes and only occasionally need public ultra-rapid charging.
Other EVs with 800V architecture – including those from Kia and Hyundai – include onboard DC-to-DC converters that “boost” the supply from 400V chargers, allowing these vehicles to work with older and slower charging devices.
Mercedes will reportedly offer an optional DC-to-DC converter to Norwegian customers, where much of the charging network still uses 400V systems. It’s unknown whether this option will be extended to UK buyers.
The new CLA is scheduled to launch in the second half of 2025.
