Mercedes-Benz has officially declared its intention to incorporate Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS) into its electric vehicle ecosystem beginning in 2025. With this move, the iconic German automaker becomes the first of its kind from the country to follow the NACS trend, an initiative that has already been adopted by global automotive giants like Ford, GM, Volvo, Polestar, and Rivian.
NACS, a distinctive plug and outlet design, is an integral part of Tesla’s Supercharger network, an extensive grid of over 12,000 fast-charging stations scattered throughout North America. Embracing NACS not only enables Mercedes-Benz vehicles to tap into Tesla’s Superchargers, but it also allows its drivers to benefit from what is widely acknowledged as a superior charging system, outpacing many third-party EV charging stations in the region.
In the spirit of ensuring a seamless transition, Mercedes-Benz plans to roll out an adapter that will enable its existing Combined Charging System (CCS) Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) to connect to the NACS network without any hitches from 2024 onwards. This adapter will be included in the purchase or lease package of new Mercedes-Benz EQS, EQE, or EQB models.
As well as ensuring compatibility with an expansive network of charging stations, Mercedes-Benz has ambitious plans to inaugurate its own High-Power Charging Network. The network will encompass over 400 Charging Hubs, housing more than 2,500 high-power chargers throughout North America by the end of this decade, in partnership with American collaborators. The inaugural Mercedes-Benz Charging Hubs are slated to open their doors in North America by the close of 2023, featuring both CCS1 and NACS plug options.
Furthering its network expansion, the company has set a goal to install a global network of 2,000 hubs housing 10,000 chargers. Earlier this year, Mercedes-Benz unveiled collaborations with ChargePoint and MN8, a renowned solar company, to facilitate charger installations in major cities and along critical highways. The Mercedes-Benz Charging Network will be an open network, accessible to drivers of both Mercedes-Benz and non-Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
By making this pivotal announcement, Mercedes-Benz reaffirms its commitment to expediting the global shift towards electric mobility and ensuring a top-tier charging experience for its customers. Joining forces with Tesla, Mercedes-Benz contributes to the establishment of a universal standard for EV charging, aimed at simplifying and elevating the EV ownership experience.
