Mercedes-Benz Launching Global Charging Network
Mercedes-Benz announced plans to launch a global high-power charging network across North America, Europe, China and other key markets.
At CES 2023 in Las Vegas, Mercedes-Benz announced that the rollout of its high-power charging network will start this year in North America. The collaboration partners here include MN8 Energy, one of the largest solar energy and battery storage owners and operators in the U.S., and ChargePoint, an EV charging network technology company. By 2027, a network totalling more than 400 hubs across North America with more than 2,500 high-power chargers is planned to offer a premium, sustainable and reliable charging experience.
“Mercedes-Benz already offers what we believe to be the finest EVs in the market. But to accelerate the electric transformation, we need to ensure that the charging experience keeps pace as well,” said Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG. “Our customers deserve a compelling charging experience that makes electric vehicle ownership and long-distance travel effortless. We won’t take a wait-and-see approach for this to be built. That’s why we are launching a global high-end charging network. It’s designed to become another differentiator of Mercedes-Benz ownership for our customers and an asset with value creation potential for our company. We are excited to start right here in North America with strong and experienced partners like MN8 Energy and ChargePoint.”
The aim is to have the full network in place before the end of the decade, when Mercedes-Benz intends to go all-electric wherever market conditions allow. The Mercedes-Benz high-power charging network is being rolled out to enhance customers’ charging experience. The Mercedes-Benz charging hubs will be located in key cities and urban population centres, close to major arteries, convenient retail and service destinations, including participating Mercedes‑Benz dealership sites.
The company believes this strategic move will significantly enhance the usability and convenience of its new generation of electric vehicles, differentiate the Mercedes-Benz ownership experience and accelerate the EV transformation. The charging network will focus first on Mercedes-Benz customers, who will enjoy preferential access via a reservation function and other benefits.
However, it will also be open to drivers of all other brands with compatible technology. This comprehensive initiative, alongside ongoing support for shared networks such as IONITY, also aims to drive global adoption of electric mobility.For those traveling long distances, Mercedes-Benz Electric Intelligence navigation will automatically optimizing route planning, incorporating the best charging points and reserving spaces in advance. The system knows the capacity utilisation at the respective locations and ensures customers can gain immediate access to the reserved charging point at the required time. The seamless experience will be further enhanced by the “Plug & Charge” function. The charging station communicates directly with the vehicle via the charging cable.
Mercedes-Benz customers can use this function via the Mercedes me connect service Mercedes me Charge. All other customers will have straightforward access to a wide array of payment functions.
