Mercedes-Benz is launching its own fast charging network

Although Mercedes-Benz, together with Ford, the Hyundai Motor Group, Audi and Porsche, is already part of the fast charging network Ionity, it will soon have its own fast charging network. The first fast charging stations will be built in the United States and Canada this year, but Mercedes-Benz fast chargers will also be installed in Europe and China later. Before the end of this decade, Mercedes-Benz hopes to switch to selling only electric cars in markets where this is possible.

The Mercedes-Benz charging stations will be located in and around major cities, but also along major traffic arteries and points such as shopping centres. You will also encounter the stations at Mercedes dealers. The fast chargers from Mercedes-Benz – where you can charge with up to 350 kW – are, just like those Superchargers from Tesla, not only available for Mercedes drivers these days. Mercedes customers do benefit from a special reservation function.

Mercedes Benz

In 2027, Mercedes-Benz already wants 400 so-called ‘hubs’ with together more than 2,500 fast chargers. Mercedes-Benz promises, among other things, a perfect charging experience that matches the quality of the brand. What that means? According to Mercedes-Benz, when planning a long journey, the Mercedes-Benz Electric navigation can automatically reserve charging stations along the route in advance, taking into account the occupancy rate. So little to no waiting time.

Depending on where they are located, the Mercedes-Benz charging stations initially have 4 to 12 fast chargers. In time, this number may even increase to 30 units per station. Where possible, the charging stations will be covered. Mercedes-Benz speaks of charging stations near eateries and toilets, but will not operate them itself. Some charging stations will also have solar cells that generate electricity for things like lighting and security cameras.

However, Mercedes-Benz’s plans are not cheap. Over the next six to seven years, Mercedes-Benz will invest more than €1 billion in setting up the fast-charging network in the United States alone. Half of this is for the account of Mercedes’ partner MN8 Energy. ChargePoint is also a partner of Mercedes-Benz in the fast charging adventure.