Mercedes-Benz EV Range Boosted by Aerodynamic Tweaks
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mercedes-Benz’s Aerodynamic Quest: From Kammback to Electric Efficiency
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The German automaker’s relentless pursuit of lower drag coefficients is shaping the future of electric vehicle range and comfort.
The Importance of Aerodynamics in EVs
German automaker Mercedes-Benz continues to prioritize aerodynamics in its engineering, and the latest electric CLA with EQ Technology exemplifies this commitment. By meticulously streamlining airflow, the company aims to improve driving range and reduce cabin noise – critical factors for electric vehicle (EV) buyers seeking both efficiency and a comfortable driving experience.
Mercedes-Benz emphasizes that even a small reduction in the drag coefficient (Cd) can significantly impact range. The company states a 0.01 decrease in Cd can increase long-distance range by approximately 2.5 percent, translating to roughly 230 miles of additional driving per year for someone traveling 9,300 miles annually. This pursuit of aerodynamic efficiency is not new; it’s a decades-long journey for the brand.
A Ancient Timeline of Mercedes-Benz aerodynamics
The brand’s pursuit of low drag spans decades, beginning with the 1984 W124 (Cd 0.29), progressing to the 2014 CLA Coupe (0.22), and culminating in the highly aerodynamic EQS (0.20). the new CLA achieves a cd of 0.21 through optimized wheel designs, refined underbody panels, and improved sealing. The VISION EQXX concept, however, demonstrates the potential for even greater gains, achieving a remarkable Cd of 0.17.
Chasing Lower Drag: From the 1930s to the Electric Era
Mercedes-Benz’s dedication to aerodynamics dates back nearly a century, starting with Wunibald Kamm’s pioneering “Kammback” designs in the 1930s. These designs focused on truncating the vehicle’s rear to reduce turbulence. The company’s first full-size wind tunnel opened in 1943 and remains in operation today, used for airflow and wiper blade testing. The 1979 oil crisis further intensified the focus on fuel efficiency, leading to aerodynamic improvements in models like the S-Class W126 (Cd 0.36) and the E-Class W124, which broke the 0.30 barrier for production vehicles.
Several record-setting vehicles followed. The 1938 W125 ”Streamliner” achieved a Cd of 0.16 and a speed of 268 mph, while the 1978 C111-III diesel set nine world records with a Cd of 0.18. More recent concept cars continue to push the boundaries of aerodynamic design, including the 2015 IAA’s shape-shifting vehicle (Cd 0.19) and the VISION EQXX (Cd 0.17), and the AMG G
| Model | Year | Drag Coefficient (Cd) |
|---|---|---|
| W124 | 1984 | 0.29 |
| CLA Coupe | 2014 | 0.22 |
| EQS | Present | 0.20 |
| New CLA (Electric) | Present | 0.21 |