Mercedes-Benz conducted a side-impact crash test using two moving cars to demonstrate the safety of its new CLA family. A hybrid CLA Shooting Brake collided with the driver's side of a fully electric CLA, simulating a T-bone collision that can occur at intersections.
The crash speed was stated as 56 km/h in the test, which involved vehicles each weighing approximately two tons and participating without braking. Mercedes-Benz describes this experiment as the world's first public high-speed side-impact crash test conducted between two moving production vehicles.
Intersection Crash Simulated with Two Moving Vehicles
The test was based on a scenario where two cars traveling at right angles to each other collide at an intersection. According to Mercedes-Benz, the speed used represents the upper limit of typical intersection accidents. Eight test dummies, representing four adults and four children, were placed in the vehicles.
According to the company's statement, the passenger compartments of both CLAs maintained their structural integrity after the collision. Measurements were taken from the dummies to assess how occupants of different sizes and seating positions were affected by the impact. Mercedes-Benz announced that the measurements taken from the test dummies showed that the impact on the occupants remained within the defined safety limits.
Did the Electric CLA's Battery Sustain Damage?
One of the closely monitored aspects of the test was the high-voltage battery located under the floor of the electric CLA, which was impacted on the driver's side.
According to Mercedes-Benz's statement, the battery pack maintained its integrity, and no damage causing physical integrity issues occurred in the battery cells. Furthermore, the high-voltage system automatically deactivated upon impact.
This safety function aims to reduce electrical risks for vehicle occupants and rescue teams after an accident.
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