Mercedes follows Tesla with its own fast charging network

Mercedes-Benz will set up its own fast charging network with 10,000 charging stations. Such a network would be a direct competitor for Tesla.

Although the Tesla Supercharger was initially only intended for Teslas, cars from other brands can now also charge their batteries at one of the charging stations. That means more sales for Tesla.

Mercedes follows Tesla

But Tesla could therefore face competition from Mercedes-Benz in the future. The brand’s CEO, Ola Källenius, announced during the CES tech fair in Las Vegas that he was working on a fast charging network with chargers that can charge up to 350 kW. At Tesla, this is now possible with 250 kW.

Refueling at 30 kilometers per minute, that’s what the top man from Mercedes promises. The first Chargers open in the United States. Here the company receives a subsidy for the installation of the piles. Posts will then also be set in China and Europe.

Tesla has 40,000 of its own chargers

With 10,000 chargers, however, Mercedes-Benz has not yet come close to Tesla. The American brand already has more than 400,000 of its own chargers.

Mercedes wants to build stations that offer 4 to 12 chargers. Later, this number can increase to 30 connectors per station. Some stations will have solar panels that can (partially) provide power for both the charging stations and other rotating electronics at the station.

Mercedes will invest $40 billion

The German automaker has previously announced plans to invest more than $40 billion in electrifying its entire lineup by the end of this decade. Mercedes wants to halve its CO2 emissions compared to 2018. The Mercedes fast charging stations will be located near major cities and motorways. “Our customers deserve an immersive charging experience that makes owning and driving long distances with an electric car effortless.”

Mercedes EQS SUV video

One of the electric cars we’re likely to see at this charging station is the EQS SUV. You can see more about the electric seven-seater in the video below.