Mercedes-Benz is committing $1 billion to create a high-speed charging network across the U.S., featuring powerful 400 kW stations. This network already includes a dozen locations in Texas, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Kentucky, with plans to expand to nearly half of all U.S. states within the next 12-18 months.
Starbucks will provide space for these chargers in its parking lots but will not cover the installation costs. MN8 Energy, a division of Goldman Sachs Asset Management, will cover half of Mercedes-Benz’s $1 billion rollout.
Andrew Cornelia, president and CEO of Mercedes-Benz High-Power Charging, stated, “The collaboration between two leading brands like Mercedes-Benz and Starbucks will uplift the charging experience for all EV drivers. Together, we seek to infuse delight into this facet of EV ownership through intentional experiences that make drivers genuinely excited to plug in. We envision a future where charging your vehicle is as easy as enjoying your favorite Starbucks.”
Starbucks has shown a strong interest in EVs, with over 1,000 stores nationwide near charging stations. Additionally, Volvo has partnered with Starbucks to install 50 charging points at 15 Starbucks locations along a 1,350-mile route between Denver and Seattle. These chargers, integrated into the ChargePoint app, can add up to 110 miles (177 km) of range to the XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge models in just 15 minutes.
Mercedes-Benz opened its first EV charging hub in North America late last year in Sandy Springs, Georgia. This station features 400 kW chargers and a solar panel-covered roof.
Source: Starbucks
