Tesla lined up its competitors: Mercedes is among them too!
Tesla, one of the most significant electric car manufacturers globally, gained the respect of even its competitors through the technologies it developed.
Mercedes-Benz, its electric vehicles (EVs) in North America to adopt the North American Charging Standard (NACS), originally developed by Tesla, starting in 2025. This adoption will give drivers immediate access to Tesla's extensive Supercharger network, pending the arrival of a CCS-to-NACS adapter in 2024. This development, however, doesn't disrupt Mercedes' independent initiative to launch a robust high-speed charging network commencing this fall.
Mercedes has detailed plans to establish more than 400 "Charging Hubs" across North America by 2030. These hubs will consist of a collective 2,500 chargers. The first set of installations is scheduled to include both CCS and NACS connectors and will welcome EVs of any make, not just Mercedes.
Mercedes executives highlighted that this expansion is a strategic move to ensure drivers are provided with "fast, convenient and reliable" charging facilities. Mercedes board chairman Ola Källenius stated that increased access to Superchargers would improve the overall EV experience, offering potential buyers reassurance of cross-country travel convenience and reduced charging times.
Tesla lined up its competitors: Mercedes is among them too!
With this move, Mercedes becomes the first German automaker to adopt NACS, joining the likes of European manufacturers Volvo and Polestar. Volkswagen is also considering adopting NACS but hasn't committed to the shift, although it is introducing NACS to Electrify America chargers. Major American automakers such as Ford, GM, and Rivian have already shown their support for Tesla's technology. Furthermore, the mobility association SAE is developing a standardized version of the plug to facilitate wider adoption.
This move from Mercedes doesn't signal a global shift, and given the brand's premium positioning, its impact may be less than mass-market brands like Ford and GM. Nevertheless, this transition to NACS puts pressure on competitors such as VW, who are still employing the CCS standard in North America. Their continued use of a less common EV plug might impact their long-distance driving appeal and, in turn, car sales.
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