Mercedes-Benz has announced a plan to invest $1 billion in the creation of a network of EV charging stations across the United States. The network, which the company says will ultimately include 400 locations with a total of over 2,500 chargers, appears to be a response to Tesla's Supercharger network.

The yet-to-be-named network is a joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and energy producer MN8 Energy, and the two companies will equally split the $1 billion investment required for its construction. The project is slated to begin in the United States before the end of 2023 and is expected to be complete and available in Europe and China by 2030.

The charging stations, which will be located in major cities and urban centers near major roads and popular retail and service centers, will primarily serve Mercedes-Benz EVs, but will also be compatible with electric vehicles from other brands that are equipped with the appropriate charger. Some of the stations will be located at participating dealerships.

 

 

According to computer-generated images, the charging stations will be designed to resemble a modernized gas station and will feature modular layouts that will vary depending on the location. Surveillance cameras will also be installed for user security. The cost of charging has not yet been disclosed, but Mercedes-Benz has stated that some chargers will be capable of reaching speeds of up to 350 kilowatts. Mercedes-Benz car owners will be able to reserve a spot and pay for charging through the Mercedes Me Charge service via the infotainment system, while electric vehicle owners from other brands will have access to "a wide array of payment functions."

More information about this new network of charging stations is expected to be released in the near future.

Source: Mercedes-Benz