CES 2023: Mercedes builds its own charging network - with ChargePoint and MN8

The automobile manufacturer Mercedes-Benz presented technological innovations at CES 2023 in Las Vegas under the motto "Tech to Desire" and announced comprehensive plans for the establishment of a global "Mercedes-Benz High-Power-Charging Network". The construction of the first charging parks is set to begin this year in North America, in collaboration with energy specialists MN8 Energy and charging network operator ChargePoint. During the Mercedes-Benz Tech Talks at CES 2023, Chief Technology Officer Markus Schäfer revealed extensive plans for the establishment of a global Mercedes-Benz High-Power-Charging network. This will require an investment of one billion euros in North America. For Europe, they are still looking for partners, but overall, a "low single-digit billion amount" is to be invested in the HPC charging network, according to Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius. This is independent of participation in the IONITY HPC network with other German manufacturers, said the Mercedes boss. And also independent of possible subsidies from the EU or individual countries.

"Mercedes-Benz customers deserve a compelling charging experience that makes owning an electric vehicle and long-distance travel as convenient as possible. That's why we are launching a global high-end charging network for a charging experience that lives up to the Mercedes driving experience,” emphasized Källenius, who has long been advocating for its own charging network and is convinced that the electric transformation will only succeed with the appropriate charging infrastructure.

This year it is set to start in North America, with the network expansion in Europe, China, and other core markets to follow. By 2027, the network with more than 400 charging parks and over 2,500 high-power chargers (HPC) will cover the North American continent. The fast-charging parks are located at regular intervals in key cities and metropolitan areas near highways and major transportation hubs. This is to ensure a high-quality, sustainable, and reliable charging experience. Mercedes-Benz carefully selects the locations and surroundings of the charging parks, taking customer needs into account. Therefore, the best possible charging experience will be complemented by nearby dining facilities and restrooms.

“ChargePoint continues to strive to deliver the ease of use drivers expect and the charging speed they need – whenever and wherever drivers want it,” explained ChargePoint CEO Pasquale Romano.

This partnership extends the existing relationships with Mercedes-Benz and MN8. They are convinced that the spread of such charging hubs will bring about a new 30-minute retail economy at the intersection of innovation and accessibility, Romano continued.

Advantage for Benz Drivers: Reservation Function

The stations will also be equipped with surveillance cameras and other measures to ensure a secure charging environment. Selected charging points are covered to protect against weather. Depending on the region and location, the charging stations will offer four to twelve – and a maximum of up to 30 – high-power chargers with up to 350 kW charging power, allowing up to 100 kilometers of range to be added in three minutes. Currently, however, Benz models achieve a maximum charging power of 200 kW. Thanks to intelligent charge management, each vehicle can be charged to its maximum capacity, reducing waiting times to an absolute minimum. In principle, the charging network will be open to all vehicle brands, but Mercedes-Benz customers will enjoy special benefits, such as a reservation function. In addition, the "Plug&Charge" function will be available through its own charging network. The power supply will preferably be ensured through green electricity supply contracts or the use of certificates for renewable energy from verified providers. Selected charging stations will also feature photovoltaic systems to cover energy needs for lighting, video surveillance, and more.

The Mercedes-Benz hubs will primarily be operated with ChargePoint Express Plus, a high-performance DC fast-charging platform aimed at companies looking to scale their charging operations in the long term. This is intended to provide the ideal platform for gas stations, rest areas, retail locations, and charging parks along highways. Depending on the configuration, the system can deliver up to 500 kW per connection and is designed to be easily scalable for higher demand, thanks to liquid-cooled cables, making it future-proof.

“In North America, together with our partners MN8 Energy and ChargePoint – two leading companies in their respective fields – we can accelerate the path to the all-electric future, which is one of the most important pillars of our holistic, sustainable corporate strategy," announced
Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, Chief Technology Officer, Development & Procurement.

Experienced Partners as a Basis

MN8 Energy is one of the largest owners and operators of solar energy and battery storage in the USA. The partnership with MN8 Energy supports Mercedes-Benz’s goal of maximizing access to green charging stations for its customers in the USA. ChargePoint has built one of the world's leading EV charging networks in the USA and Europe, providing power for approximately five billion electric miles traveled to date. The international company already works as the backend provider for Mercedes me Charge in the USA. By the end of the decade, the Mercedes-Benz High-Power-Charging network will be expanded worldwide by more than 10,000 high-power chargers, going beyond the existing charging offering.