Mercedes-Benz is planning to build high-power charging network across North America, Europe, China and other key markets, the automaker announced, with construction on the network set to begin later this year in the U.S. and Canada.
The aim is to have the full network in place before the end of the decade, when Mercedes-Benz intends to go all-electric wherever market conditions allow.
According to the company, the charging hubs will be located in key cities and urban population centers, close to major arteries, convenient retail and service destinations, including participating Mercedes-Benz dealership sites.
The charging network will give preferential access to Mercedes-Benz customers, via a reservation function and other benefits, the company said, but will be open to drivers of all other brands with compatible technology.
Collaboration partners in the U.S. include MN8 Energy, a solar energy and battery storage owner and operator, and ChargePoint, an EV charging network technology company. By 2027, a network totaling more than 400 hubs across North America with more than 2,500 high-power chargers is planned to offer a premium, sustainable and reliable charging experience.
Depending on region and location, the hubs will offer 4 to 12, and ultimately as many as 30, high-power chargers (HPC) with up to 350 kW of charging power, Mercedes-Benz officials said. Intelligent charge-load management will allow each vehicle to charge at its maximum capacity keeping waiting times to an absolute minimum. The optimized station layout will ensure plenty of space around the vehicle as well as unhindered charging from either side. Where feasible, charging points will be covered for protection from the weather. The charging hubs will also have food outlets and restrooms situated nearby, and be equipped with surveillance cameras and other measures.
The total investment cost for the North American network will be just over $1 billion, deployed over the next 6-7 years, the company said.
