Digital, flexible, connected: successful start of production for the new Mercedes-Benz GLA at the Rastatt plant

• Start of series production in Rastatt: the new GLA rolls off the production line with flexible powertrain options – fully electric or as a (48V) high-tech hybrid
• “Digital First” in manufacturing: Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital twins and MB.OS are integral parts of the MO360 production ecosystem
• Investments in the low-three-figure-million range secure the plant’s future viability

Mercedes-Benz has commenced series production of the new GLA at its Rastatt plant, as production of its all-electric version is already in full swing. The high-tech hybrid models, featuring 48-volt technology and a state-of-the-art internal combustion engine, will follow later this year. The GLA now joins other models from the new generation of vehicles being produced in Rastatt. The plant is further strengthening its role as a centre of excellence for the production of compact vehicles. 

“With the start of production of the new GLA and the investments in Rastatt, we’re strengthening the site’s role within the Mercedes-Benz global production network. The production process demonstrates how we are consistently utilising digital technologies: MB.OS, artificial intelligence and our MO360 production ecosystem are closely integrated and enable even more flexible and efficient production. I’d like to thank all my colleagues in Rastatt who, with their passion and innovative spirit, have made this successful launch possible.”
Michael Schiebe, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes‑Benz Group AG, 
responsible for Production, Quality and Supply Chain Management 

“With the GLA, another model from a completely new generation of vehicles is already rolling off the production line in Rastatt. The fact that the transformation of our plant and the start of production are going so smoothly is down to our team. They’re tackling challenging tasks with a high level of expertise, flexibility and passion. I am very proud of the Rastatt team and want to express my sincere thanks to all colleagues involved!”
Marco Zwick, Site Manager and Head of Production at the Mercedes-Benz Rastatt plant 

Rastatt: a pioneer in flexible and digital production

The Mercedes-Benz Rastatt plant has been in operation since 1992 and, with around 7,000 employees, is the region’s largest employer. Production is drive-system-flexible: hybrid and fully electric vehicles are manufactured on the same production line as vehicles with conventional drive systems. This enables the plant to respond quickly to demand in global markets.  

The new GLA is currently being built in Assembly Hall 4.0. Mercedes-Benz is now investing a low-three-digit-million sum in the conversion of the neighbouring Assembly Hall 4.1, where production of the model will take place starting in 2027. Mercedes-Benz is using digital twins for this conversion: with the aid of high-precision digital simulation techniques, the new production line can be configured and optimised, realising significant potential savings in construction time and costs. The use of digital twins has already led to a record-breaking completion time during the successful conversion of Hall 4.0 in 2023. 

Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS) in production

The Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS) also plays a central role in the production of the new GLA: the chip-to-cloud architecture transmits the vehicle software via a central server in the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud rather than via various hardware modules, ensuring that vehicles always roll off the production line with the latest software. 

A strong network: components from Untertürkheim, Kamenz and Kuppenheim

Rastatt forms part of a flexible global production network. The electric drive units and axles for the new GLA come from Untertürkheim, including its plant sites in Mettingen and Hedelfingen. A drive unit essentially consists of three subsystems: an electric motor, power electronics and the transmission component for power transfer. The power-transmitting wheel set and other components, such as the control unit, are also manufactured there. The assembly of these components into a complete system takes place at the Untertürkheim plant. Mettingen is also responsible for assembling the electric axles for the GLA, which are delivered to Rastatt as complete systems.  

The high-voltage batteries for the new GLA are supplied by the Mercedes-Benz subsidiary Accumotive in Kamenz, Saxony. In-house battery production is a key success factor for Mercedes-Benz’s strategy. Accumotive has 13 years’ experience in the efficient production of highly complex battery systems and acts as a centre of excellence within the global battery production network, which comprises sites on three continents. 

The Kuppenheim plant site, situated some 10 kilometres away, has been supplying body-in-white components as well as structural and body parts to Rastatt since 2009 – and now also for the new GLA. Since early 2026, the Mercedes-Benz sites in Rastatt and Kuppenheim have also been more closely linked organisationally. The Kuppenheim plant site has been part of the Mercedes-Benz Rastatt plant ever since. 

“The start of production of the new GLA marks the beginning of another important chapter for the Mercedes-Benz Rastatt plant. This vehicle embodies modern mobility and the successful transformation of our production. The decision to manufacture the GLA in Rastatt strengthens our competitiveness and secures future prospects for our colleagues. Especially during the year of Mercedes-Benz’s 140^th anniversary, it’s clear just how important innovation, expertise and team spirit are for the long-term success of our company.”
Torsten Höink, Chair of the Works Council at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Rastatt 

The new Mercedes-Benz GLA: designed to inspire every day

The new GLA combines striking design, advanced technology and excellent everyday practicality, making urban mobility more confident, intuitive and emotive. Its lower silhouette, longer wheelbase and illuminated iconic grille give it a distinctly sportier and more self-assured appearance. Its completely redesigned interior, featuring a panoramic roof, large MBUX Superscreen and high-quality materials, offers noticeable improvements in comfort, spaciousness and versatility. Intelligent technologies – including the MBUX Virtual Assistant with generative AI – enable natural interaction and personalised support.

Mercedes-Benz anniversary year “140 Years of Innovation”

Since Carl Benz filed the patent for the first automobile 140 years ago and Gottlieb Daimler built his motorised carriage shortly afterwards, Mercedes‑Benz has dedicated itself to constant innovation and to creating the world’s most desirable cars for customers. This ambition has driven every innovation – from the world’s first automobile in 1886 to the biggest product launch programme in the company’s history that is currently underway. With its passion for performance and pioneering power, excellence and an unwavering commitment to customer service, the brand has consistently shaped the future of mobility. The result goes well beyond engineering achievement – it creates the unmistakable feeling that runs through everything Mercedes‑Benz does: Welcome home. 

Mercedes‑Benz is celebrating 140 years of innovation by driving three new S‑Class saloons on a trans-continental journey to 140 locations worldwide. Each place highlights the brand’s technology, heritage, pioneering spirit and worldwide presence. Along the way, customers, fans and colleagues will get to join in the celebrations - on an epic adventure that will run until October. Follow the “140 Years. 140 Places” drive across six continents on our “140 Years of Innovation | Mercedes‑Benz Media” special and via the Mercedes‑Benz Community.