Production of an updated GLA range has started at Daimler's Mercedes-Benz plant at Rastatt in Germany.

"The ramp-up of the GLA is further proof of the diversity, competitiveness and efficiency of our production operations at the plant. Within a very short space of time, our team mastered another ramp-up in ongoing series-production, while the location operates at full capacity and the preparations for the next generation of compact cars are running at full steam," said Thomas Geier, location manager.

The GLA now has an expanded range of more efficient engines, plus interior and exterior changes and revised equipment variants. It was launched in 2013.

Rastatt plant in Germany is the biggest employer in the region, with a workforce of around 6.500 employees and lead plant for the production of compact cars worldwide. The A-, B- and B-Class EV are also made at the plant. In 2016, over 300,000 vehicles were built.