Mercedes to launch electric vehicle charging network in Europe

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【Summary】Mercedes is planning to launch its own electric vehicle (EV) charging network in Europe this year. The network will feature over 2,000 fast chargers by the end of 2024 and aims to have 10,000 charging points across 2,000 hubs by the end of the decade. Mercedes drivers will be able to use the MercedesMe service to pay for their charge and reserve slots at charging stations. The hubs will also have amenities such as a roof, food outlets, toilets, security cameras, and lights.

FutureCar Staff Aug 31, 2023 7:30 AM PT

Mercedes to launch electric vehicle charging network in Europe

Mercedes is set to establish its own network of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, following in the footsteps of Tesla and its Supercharger network. These charging stations will be accessible to all EV drivers, not just Mercedes owners. The first stations are expected to open in Autumn this year in America, China, and Germany, with over 2,000 fast chargers planned by the end of 2024. Mercedes aims to have 10,000 charging points across 2,000 hubs by the end of the decade.

Each charging hub will have between four and 30 fast chargers, capable of accommodating charging speeds of up to 400kW. Mercedes is committed to providing a premium, sustainable, and reliable charging experience for its customers. Mercedes drivers will be able to use the MercedesMe service to pay for their charge and even reserve a slot at a charging station. The charging stations will also be integrated into the route planning of Mercedes vehicles to optimize charging efficiency.

Unlike many existing charging stations, Mercedes' hubs will feature a roof, food outlet, toilets, security cameras, and lights to enhance convenience and safety. Markus Schäfer, Chief Technology Officer of Mercedes-Benz, confirmed that every Mercedes charging hub will be powered by green energy. The company plans to roll out the infrastructure to Europe this year, starting with North America.

While the charging stations will be available to all EV owners, Mercedes aims to offer preferential rates to its own drivers. Schäfer stated that non-Mercedes owners will have access to the chargers, but separate pricing will be implemented to provide benefits for Mercedes owners. The investment in the North American network is expected to exceed 1 billion euros over the next 6-7 years. Mercedes will continue its partnership with charging provider Ionity and promote Ionity-branded hubs in the future.

With this ambitious plan, Mercedes is positioning itself as a leader in EV infrastructure, providing a comprehensive and convenient charging network for all EV drivers.