Mercedes-Benz will begin expanding its global charging infrastructure this fall with the opening of the company’s first high-power charging stations in Atlanta (USA), Chengdu (China) and Mannheim (Germany).

The automaker aims to expand its global charging network — the Mercedes-Benz Charging Hubs — to more than 2,000 high-power charging points with a long-term goal to create more than 2,000 Charging Hubs with over 10,000 charging points by the end of the decade.

"We firmly believe that electric mobility is the key to a sustainable, zero-emission future. Our goal is to create an infrastructure that offers electric vehicles reliable and easy charging options. In this way, we are actively supporting the transformation to electric mobility," said Franz Reiner, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Mobility.

Charging Hub Details

Depending on the region, the MB Hub charging stations currently offer charging rates of up to 400 kW, utilizing standard charging systems CCS1, CCS2, NACS and GB/T. The stations’ intelligent system enables vehicle to be charged at its maximum power rating, reducing charging times, according to Mercedes-Benz.

Open to drivers of all vehicle brands, MB Charging Hub stations are located at main traffic areas and select Mercedes-Benz dealerships, and feature such amenities as refreshments, snacks and restroom facilities. The stations will be equipped with surveillance cameras to enhance customer safety. At selected locations, intelligent light poles will provide functional LED elements detailing charging point availability and the vehicle’s charging status.

The Mercedes-Benz charging network will be incorporated with the more than 1.3 million charging stations already available worldwide.

Mercedes-Benz customers can reserve a charging point via the Mercedes-Benz me Charge service. The carmaker’s navigation system will directly integrate the charging network. In addition, the stations feature Plug & Charge, enabling Mercedes-Benz customers to automate the charging and payment process as soon as the charging cable is plugged in.

Green Energy Supplies Charging Hubs

The charging network will use 100% renewable electricity through green electricity supply contracts wherever possible or through renewable energy certificates from an accredited supplier. Solar panels will provide electricity for hub operations at selected stations.

The high-power charging network augments Mercedes-Benz’s European fast charging network IONITY and the recently announced joint venture with six other OEMs to further expand the North American charging infrastructure.