Mercedes-Benz LIVE from 2013 New York Auto Show at 11:15 AM ET +VIDEO

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NEW YORK - March 27, 2013: The first Mercedes-Benz compact coming to the US- the CLA soon will have a high performance sibling. At the Mercedes-Benz Press conference on Wednesday March 27th (NY Auto Show 11:15 AM, eastern/8:15 AM, pacific) the all new CLA AMG will celebrate its world premiere. Sleek Design meets high performance:. A glance at the high-tech package proves that the CLA 45 AMG also has the characteristic genes and that it fulfills AMG's brand promise "Driving Performance" perfectly. With a maximum power output of 265 kW (360 hp) and a peak torque of 450 Newton meters it is the world's most powerful four-cylinder engine built in series production. But that's not all: the turbocharged engine also delivers convincing efficiency and meets EU6 emission standards. With a fuel consumption of 6.9 liters per 100 kilometers according to NEDC, the CLA 45 AMG also meets highest requirements.

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Last year in Paris Mercedes-Benz showed the concept B-Class Electric Drive slated to come to the market in 2014. The spacious B-Class a popular compact in Europe so far is not available in the US, but the electric version will come to the US first. It will be the first four door full electric Mercedes-Benz coming to the US. The so called sandwich architecture of the B-Class, allows for the highly efficient lithium-ion battery to be stored in the vehicle carriage, resulting in uncompromised trunk and passenger space. With a range of about 120 miles the B-Class Electric Drive offers a perfect sustainable mobility option for the whole family. Charging time of the battery per 60 miles at 240V/40 A about 2 hours.

The smart fortwo electric drive will go on sales in the US.The electric car that was only available for lease in the US so far, will now be available for sale with a sticker price starting at $ 25,000 before a federal tax break, that will lower the price significantly. The smart fortwo electric drive has a range of about 90 miles. Also available as a convertible, the smart fortwo electric drive is the perfect car for inner city driving.