Mercedes-Benz has announced ambitious plans to build a global high-power charging network that will span North America, Europe, China, and other key markets. It will begin construction this year in the United States and Canada, followed by other regions worldwide. The goal is to complete the network by the end of the decade when Mercedes-Benz plans to go all-electric wherever market conditions allow. The Mercedes-Benz high-power charging network will significantly improve customers’ charging experiences, accelerate the transition to an all-electric future, and create a global infrastructure asset with the potential for future value creation. Mercedes-Benz charging stations will be located in major cities and urban population centres, near significant arteries, convenient retail and service destinations, and participating Mercedes-Benz dealerships.
The charging network will prioritise Mercedes-Benz customers, who will have priority access via a reservation function and other benefits. However, it will be available to drivers of all other brands with compatible technology. Along with ongoing support for shared networks like IONITY, this comprehensive initiative aims to accelerate the global adoption of electric mobility.
Mercedes-Benz strives to enable its customers to charge with green energy at its charging network under its sustainable “Ambition 2039” business strategy. Preferably through green electricity supply contracts or renewable energy certificates from a reputable supplier. Selected Mercedes-Benz charging stations will also be outfitted with photovoltaic systems, providing electricity for lighting and video surveillance, among other things.
Further, the rollout of its high-power charging network will begin this year in North America. MN8 Energy, one of the largest solar energy and battery storage owners and operators in the US, and ChargePoint, a leading EV charging network technology company, are among the collaboration partners. A network of over 400 hubs across North America with over 2,500 high-power chargers is planned to provide a premium, sustainable, and reliable charging experience by 2027.
“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. 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.” – Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG