German automaker Mercedes-Benz announced on Friday that its electric vehicles (EVs) in North America will adopt Tesla’s charging technology starting from 2025. This decision comes as Mercedes-Benz aims to expand its network of fast-chargers and make EV ownership more convenient for its customers. By joining American rivals Ford and General Motors in adopting the North American Charging Standard (NACS), Mercedes-Benz aims to enhance the charging infrastructure for EVs in the region.
This partnership makes Mercedes-Benz the first German automaker to embrace Tesla’s charging design for its North American market. Volkswagen, another prominent German automaker, is also reportedly in discussions to adopt the NACS charging standard.
To facilitate the transition, Mercedes-Benz plans to introduce an adapter in 2024 that will enable its existing EVs equipped with the Combined Charging System (CCS) to charge on the NACS network. The CCS is a widely used plug for DC fast-charging and offers compatibility with various EV models.
As part of this collaboration, Mercedes-Benz drivers will be able to view Tesla Superchargers on their vehicle’s map, along with information on availability and pricing. Additionally, Mercedes-Benz plans to expand its charging network by establishing over 400 charging hubs and installing more than 2,500 high-power chargers across North America by the end of the decade.
Tesla, on the other hand, has been expanding its charging infrastructure by incorporating CCS connectors at some of its U.S. charging stations. This move aligns with the Biden administration’s efforts to provide substantial subsidies for the expansion of charging networks. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, Tesla’s Superchargers currently account for approximately 60% of the total number of fast chargers in the United States.
By selecting Tesla’s charging technology and leveraging its vast Supercharger network, Mercedes-Benz aims to offer improved charging capabilities and enhance the EV ownership experience for its North American customers. This collaboration represents a significant step towards the widespread adoption and accessibility of electric vehicles in the region.
Source: Reuters
