Mercedes-Benz Joins NACS Charging Initiative, Gains Access to Tesla Superchargers
Mercedes-Benz has announced its adoption of Tesla's North American Charging Standard (NACS) as part of the industry-wide effort to establish a universal plug for electric vehicles (EVs). By embracing NACS, Mercedes will grant its customers access to Tesla's extensive Supercharger fast-charging network. With this move, Mercedes becomes the first German automaker to incorporate NACS ports into its EV lineup, a development scheduled to commence in 2025. In the interim, an adapter will be made available to enable owners of existing CCS-equipped vehicles to utilize NACS chargers.
The decision aligns with Mercedes' strategic objective of crafting highly desirable cars and accelerating the transition to EVs. The company aims to enhance the overall EV experience for its customers, providing them with fast, convenient, and reliable charging solutions wherever they travel in their Mercedes-Benz vehicles. To accomplish this, Mercedes is committed to building its global Mercedes-Benz High-Power Charging Network, with the first sites slated to open later this year, integrating seamlessly with the existing "Mercedes me Charge" service that already encompasses 90,000 charging stations. By joining forces with Tesla, the Supercharger network alone will add over 120,000 new charging options, more than doubling the current infrastructure.
Furthermore, Mercedes intends to construct over 400 new charging hubs in North America, featuring more than 2,500 individual charging stations. The first Mercedes-Benz Charging Hubs in North America, equipped with both CCS and NACS plugs, are set to launch by the end of 2023. This initiative forms part of a broader plan to establish over 2,000 new charging hubs worldwide, accommodating an additional 10,000 stations. Through these endeavors, Mercedes-Benz aims to provide its customers with comprehensive charging capabilities, supporting their EV ownership journey and contributing to the global expansion of sustainable mobility.
