Mercedes-Benz is building a global branded network targeting over 10,000 high-power chargers (HPCs) across North America, Europe, China and other main markets, Kallanish reports.

The German carmaker says the roll-out will start this year in North America, where it plans to operate 400 hubs and over 2,500 HPCs by 2027. Hubs are planned to feature 4-12 chargers, although some may have as many as 30 depending on regions and locations. The charging stations will provide 100% green energy and have on-site solar PV generation for own consumption such as powering lightning and video surveillance.

“Mercedes-Benz already offers what we believe to be the finest EVs in the market. But to accelerate the electric transformation, we need to ensure that the charging experience keeps pace as well,” says Ola Källenius, chairman of the Mercedes-Benz Group. “We won’t take a wait-and-see approach for this to be built.”

The initial phase in North America is estimated to cost €1 billion ($1.05 billion) over the next 6-7 years. Mercedes is partnering with US renewable and battery storage operator MN8 Energy to build the regional network at a 50:50 cost split. The carmaker is also partnering with ChargePoint, a leading specialist in charging network design and provision.

Mercedes drivers will have preferential treatment and benefits, such as pre-booking chargers from their cars. However, the network will be open to all brands to accelerate EV uptake, the carmaker says.  

The high-power chargers will provide up to 350 kilowatts of charging power, complementing existing access to the pan-European fast charging network IONITY – operated by Mercedes and other OEMs. In the US, ChargePoint already serves as Mercedes' backend provider for its me Charge charging service.

The carmaker also announced during the CES 2023 conference that its Level 3 conditionally automated driving technology, DRIVE PILOT, will be available in Nevada and California this year. It’s currently only available in Germany. In addition, Mercedes is also will also introduce the automated lane change (ALC) feature to the North American market in 2023.

“DMV Nevada has approved the application, and they are now preparing the certificate of compliance that will be issued within the next two weeks,” a spokesperson says. “With that, Mercedes-Benz will be the first OEM to have a Level 3 system to offer in the US – and is optimistic that California will follow soon.”