German automotive brand Mercedes-Benz is taking a customer-focused approach to scale electric vehicles in North America by providing drivers with access to Tesla Superchargers starting in 2024.
The move aims to enhance the product experience and offer full access to major charging networks, reinforcing the company’s commitment to electric mobility.
In a phased transition, Mercedes-Benz will become the first German original equipment manufacturer (OEM) to implement NACS ports into its new electric vehicles, commencing in 2025. As a precursor, an adapter will be made available for existing Mercedes-Benz CCS (Combined Charging System) battery electric vehicles (BEVs), enabling seamless charging on the NACS network beginning in 2024.
Starting in 2024, Mercedes-Benz drivers will gain access to over 12,000 Tesla Superchargers in North America through the Mercedes me Charge service. The availability, pricing, and status of Tesla Superchargers will be displayed on the vehicle’s map and the accompanying app.
Drivers can effortlessly access the chargers and make automatic payments for their charging sessions. The integration of Superchargers into the Navigation with Electric Intelligence system will provide convenient and efficient routes, considering charging stops.
Mercedes-Benz Group management board chairman Ola Källenius said: “Our strategic priority is clear: Building the world’s most desirable cars. To accelerate the shift to electric vehicles, we are dedicated to elevating the entire EV-experience for our customers – including fast, convenient, and reliable charging solutions wherever their Mercedes-Benz takes them.
“That’s why we are committed to building our global Mercedes-Benz High-Power Charging Network, with the first sites opening this year. In parallel, we are also implementing NACS in our vehicles, allowing drivers to access an expansive network of high-quality charging offerings in North America.”
Mercedes me Charge already covers more than 90,000 charging points across North America, and combined with the upcoming Mercedes-Benz High-Power Charging Network, it offers an enhanced charging experience. The company remains open to additional high-quality charging options to expand high-power charging opportunities for customers and further promote electric vehicle adoption.
In addition to ensuring compatibility with existing charging stations, Mercedes-Benz plans to establish its own High-Power Charging Network by the end of the decade. This network will encompass over 400 Charging Hubs with more than 2,500 high-power chargers across North America, in collaboration with American partners.
The first Mercedes-Benz Charging Hubs are scheduled to open by the end of 2023 and will feature both CCS1 and NACS plugs.
On a global scale, Mercedes-Benz intends to establish over 2,000 Charging Hubs with more than 10,000 charging points in key markets, including North America, Europe, and China, by the end of the decade.
The Mercedes-Benz Charging Hubs will be accessible to electric vehicles from all brands, fostering widespread accessibility for EV owners. Currently, the Mercedes me Charge service provides access to over 1.2 million charging points worldwide.
With the introduction of its own charging network, Mercedes-Benz aims to set a new standard for EV infrastructure, ensuring fast, safe, and environmentally friendly charging for electric vehicles.
