Mercedes-Benz to Implement North American Charging Standard (NACS)
July 20 2023,
Mercedes-Benz is making a significant move in the electric vehicle (EV) market by implementing the North American Charging Standard (NACS) ports into all its new electric vehicles in North America starting from 2025. This decision showcases the company's commitment to providing a seamless charging experience for its customers and further solidifies its position as a leader in electric mobility.
A wider charging network for Mercedes-Benz electric vehicle owners
To bridge the transition period, Mercedes-Benz will provide an adapter to enable their existing Combined Charging System (CCS) Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) to charge effortlessly on the NACS network from 2024 onwards. This initiative makes Mercedes-Benz the first German Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) to adopt the NACS standard, which allows for higher charging power levels. By incorporating the NACS standard, Mercedes-Benz aims to improve charging time, addressing a key concern for EV owners.
The implementation of the NACS standard not only benefits Mercedes-Benz drivers but also contributes to the expansion of the charging network for EVs across North America. The availability of compatible charging infrastructure is crucial for the widespread adoption of electric mobility. Recognizing this, Mercedes-Benz has committed to collaborating with its American partners to establish more than 400 Charging Hubs. These Charging Hubs will house over 2,500 high-power chargers strategically located throughout North America by the end of the decade.
As part of this ambitious plan, the first Mercedes-Benz Charging Hubs in North America are set to open their doors by the end of 2023. These Hubs will be equipped with both CCS1 and NACS plugs, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of electric vehicles. Mercedes-Benz is dedicated to meeting its customers' needs and providing a best-in-class charging experience that aligns with their expectations.
Access to Tesla Supercharger Network
In addition to implementing the NACS standard, Mercedes-Benz has also taken a customer-focused approach by granting its drivers access to the Tesla Supercharger network across North America from 2024. This collaboration with Tesla enables Mercedes-Benz drivers to tap into Tesla's extensive Supercharger network, which currently boasts over 12,000 charging points and offers high-power charging capabilities. Access to the Tesla Supercharger network provides Mercedes-Benz drivers with a broader range of charging options, effectively alleviating concerns about range anxiety and enhancing the overall convenience of fast charging.
Simultaneously, Mercedes-Benz is building its own High-Power Charging (HPC) network in North America. This infrastructure development will consist of over 2,500 high-power chargers and more than 400 Charging Hubs equipped with CCS1 and NACS plugs. Importantly, these Charging Hubs will be accessible to all electric vehicles, not exclusively limited to Mercedes-Benz models. This inclusive approach aims to support the growth of electric mobility as a whole and provide a fast, safe, and environmentally friendly charging experience for all EV owners.
In conclusion, Mercedes-Benz's decision to implement the NACS standard, gain access to the Tesla Supercharger network, and establish its own High-Power Charging network underscores the brand's dedication to providing a comprehensive charging infrastructure for electric vehicle owners. These initiatives enhance convenience, alleviate range anxiety, and promote the widespread adoption of electric mobility. As Mercedes-Benz paves the way for the future of transportation, it reaffirms its position as a leader in the electric vehicle market.
