Mercedes-Benz Wants To Build America's Fastest EV Charging Network, Starts With 400 KW
Nov 25, 2023
Mercedes-Benz today opened its first EV charging center in North America. It is located at the Mercedes-Benz U.S. headquarters in Sandy Springs, Georgia.
With the official launch of the Mercedes-Benz charging network established by Mercedes-Benz HPC North America, a joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and MN8 Energy, the company aims to provide a fast, reliable, and premium charging experience for all EV drivers of the brand.
In terms of charging speed, Mercedes-Benz says that the first chargers offered by ChargePoint all have a charging power of up to 400 kilowatts, which is beyond the acceptable range of the current generation of electric vehicles. ChargePoint says it can even offer chargers with an output of 500 kilowatts. According to the press release, the company expects that at least some electric vehicles will be able to charge from 10% to 80% state-of-charge (SOC) in 20 minutes.
In terms of charging standards, it is the Combined Charging System (CCS1), but we know from previous reports that there will be a North American Charging Standard (NACS) option in the future. Mercedes-Benz itself is preparing for a move to NACS in 2025.
The Mercedes-Benz charging center will include special features (whenever possible). The automaker outlined the following features:
1. Charging Lounge: Charging Center customers can enjoy a premium, clean, and comfortable environment while charging their vehicles, complete with sofas and reclining chairs, vending machines, refreshments, and toilet facilities.
2. Solar canopy: Provide customers with weather cover, overhead LED lighting for security, and solar panels on top to generate passive clean electricity.
3. Smart Indicator: A tower with a height of 15 feet, visible from the street, indicating the status of the charging station: in use, idle, or reserved.
4. Convenience: The charging center includes a charging point closest to the charging lounge, designed for disabled-accessible vehicles, and an uncovered pass-through charging point designed for electric vans or electric vehicles with trailers up to 26 feet in length.
Powered by clean energy: Charging centers are carbon neutral by using renewable energy in direct and indirect ways.
