Mercedes-Benz is taking a significant step forward in electric vehicle accessibility by joining Tesla’s NACS Supercharger network this February. The luxury automaker becomes to embrace Tesla’s charging infrastructure, following the path of industry players like Ford, General Motors, Rivian, and Volvo.
The collaboration grants Mercedes-Benz EV owners access to more than 20k+ Supercharger stations across the United States and Canada. This strategic move substantially expands charging options for current and future Mercedes-Benz electric vehicle customers, addressing a crucial aspect of EV ownership – charging convenience.
During the initial phase, Mercedes-Benz EV owners will need to purchase a $185 NACS-to-CCS1 adapter manufactured by Lectron. The adapter underwent rigorous safety and compatibility testing to ensure optimal performance. While Lectron faced adapter-related challenges earlier, the issues were successfully resolved in April 2024, establishing a reliable connection solution.
Starting in 2025, the automaker will integrate North American Charging Standard (NACS) ports directly into its electric vehicle lineup, eliminating the need for adapters.
The integration extends beyond physical infrastructure. Mercedes-Benz’s charging map app will display Tesla Supercharger locations, creating a unified charging experience. The implementation of “Plug & Charge” technology streamlines the process – drivers simply connect their vehicles without additional authentication steps.
Mercedes-Benz plans to introduce its first electric vehicles with native NACS charging ports later this year. While the specific models remain confidential, the lineup could include updates to premium offerings like the EQS, EQE, EQB, or the anticipated electric G-Wagen.
The Tesla partnership represents just one component of Mercedes-Benz’s comprehensive charging strategy. The company continues to strengthen its charging network through various collaborations, including a partnership with MN8 Energya for high-speed charging station deployment. Additionally, Mercedes-Benz’s participation in the Ionna charging network project demonstrates its commitment to expanding charging accessibility.
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