Mercedes-Benz debuted the first of its planned network of U.S. EV fast-charging stations with the unveiling of its site located at the company’s headquarters in Sandy Springs, Georgia. This marks the beginning of a major initiative that will see Mercedes roll out additional EV fast-charging stations across the country over the next decade.
The charging station in Georgia is equipped with 400-kilowatt (kW) DC fast chargers provided by ChargePoint, which is expected to provide higher average charging speeds compared to other networks that continue to use chargers with lower power rates. In a press release, Mercedes highlighted that its network will exclusively offer 400-kW chargers.
In addition to its fast chargers, Mercedes has also promised to include more amenities at its charging sites than the average charging station. The Georgia location features restrooms, vending machines, and a 15-foot pylon visible from the street that indicates whether charging stalls are occupied. Furthermore, the facilities are handicap accessible, and the site includes a drive-through stall designed for electric vans or EVs with trailers up to 26 feet in length.
The site has been designed with sustainability in mind, featuring a solar canopy that provides shade for EV drivers while they wait for their cars to charge. Mercedes claims that the entire site uses renewable energy and is carbon neutral, further aligning with the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
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This first charging site has opened on schedule following the initial announcement of the charging network at CES in January. After setting out its plans in August, Mercedes kept to its timeline and successfully launched the first station in Georgia. Not only focusing on the U.S., Mercedes is also building out similar networks in China and Europe.
Looking ahead, Mercedes plans to expand its network by adding more charging stations at Buc-ee’s travel centers in Texas, Florida, Alabama, and Georgia within the year. Additionally, they plan to establish stations at Simon Mall locations in the first half of 2024. Ultimately, Mercedes aims to have 2,500 chargers at 400 sites by the end of the decade. To achieve this, they formed a $1 billion joint venture with MN8 Energy.
The new charging stations will be open to EVs from all brands, but Mercedes owners will be entitled to some free charging. Owners of 2024-model-year vehicles will receive two years of complimentary charging, while owners of earlier model years will get six months of free charging.
Furthermore, the network will support both the Combined Charging Standard (CCS) and Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS). Mercedes also confirmed that it will adopt Tesla charging for future EVs, signaling a commitment to interoperability and accessibility for EV drivers.
Despite establishing its own charging network, Mercedes will continue to support the Ionity network in Europe, along with a new North American charging network that is backed by six other automakers. This demonstrates a collaborative approach to addressing the infrastructure needs of the growing EV market.
In summary, the launch of Mercedes-Benz’s U.S. EV fast-charging station network represents an important milestone in the transition to electric mobility. By providing high-speed charging, luxury amenities, and a commitment to sustainability, Mercedes is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of electric vehicle infrastructure in the U.S. and beyond.
