Mercedes-Benz USA has announced a significant expansion of charging options for its electric vehicle (BEV) customers. Starting in February 2025, Mercedes-Benz BEV drivers in the United States and, later in 2025, Canada, will gain access to over 20,000 Tesla Superchargers. This integration, facilitated through the Mercedes me Charge service, will offer seamless “Plug & Charge” functionality at Tesla Supercharger locations. To ensure compatibility for current EV owners, Mercedes-Benz will also offer a NACS to CCS1 adapter. Furthermore, the company will begin incorporating the North American Charging Standard (NACS) ports into its new EV lineup starting in 2025.
This strategic move underscores Mercedes-Benz’s dedication to creating a comprehensive and user-friendly charging ecosystem for its electric vehicle owners. Dimitris Psillakis, CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA, emphasized the importance of convenient charging access for a seamless ownership experience as the company’s all-electric portfolio expands. He stated that adopting the NACS standard and integrating the Tesla Supercharger network are crucial steps in building a robust foundation for bringing innovative EVs to the market and setting benchmarks in the luxury segment.
Expanding the Public Charging Landscape
The integration of the Tesla Supercharger network into Mercedes me Charge significantly broadens the charging options available to Mercedes-Benz EV drivers. Mercedes me Charge already encompasses various charging networks, including Mercedes-Benz High-Power Charging, IONNA, Electrify America, EVGo, and ChargePoint. Franz Reiner, Chairman of the Board of Management at Mercedes-Benz Mobility AG, highlighted that this expansion will bring the total number of charging points accessible through Mercedes me Charge to over 110,000 across the United States and Canada. This positions Mercedes-Benz as providing an industry-leading charging experience for its customers, regardless of their location.
Seamless “Plug & Charge” at Tesla Superchargers
Mercedes-Benz BEV owners will benefit from the convenience of “Plug & Charge” functionality at Tesla Superchargers. This feature simplifies the charging process by automatically initiating the charging session upon plugging in the vehicle and processing payments seamlessly in the background. A complimentary software update, performed by authorized Mercedes-Benz dealerships, will be rolled out to ensure smooth Plug & Charge operation at Tesla Superchargers for compatible vehicles. Customers will be contacted to schedule their updates. Charging can also be initiated via the Mercedes-Benz app or the MBUX infotainment system. Tesla Superchargers will be integrated into Mercedes-Benz’s “Navigation with Electric Intelligence,” enabling drivers to find efficient routes with optimized charging stops. The Mercedes me Charge service provides real-time information on charger locations, availability, status, and pricing through both the Mercedes-Benz app and the MBUX system.
Adapter Solution for Existing Mercedes-Benz EVs
Recognizing the needs of current Mercedes-Benz EV drivers with CCS1-compatible charging ports, the company will offer a Mercedes-Benz-approved NACS to CCS1 DC fast charging adapter. This adapter will enable existing vehicles to utilize Tesla Superchargers. It will be available for purchase at authorized Mercedes-Benz dealerships in the United States in Q1 2025 for $185, and in Canadian dealerships in Q2 2025, with Canadian pricing to be announced closer to launch. Customers will be notified when the adapters become available. This NACS to CCS1 adapter is specifically tested and certified by Mercedes-Benz for safety and compatibility with all its BEVs and NACS DC fast charging points.
Future-Proofing with Native NACS Integration
Looking ahead, Mercedes-Benz will begin integrating NACS ports directly into its new electric vehicle lineup in North America starting in 2025. This move will eliminate the need for an adapter for future Mercedes-Benz EVs to charge at NACS DC fast charging stations, further enhancing convenience for customers.
Mercedes-Benz’s Holistic Charging Ecosystem
The adoption of NACS and the integration of the Tesla Supercharger network are part of Mercedes-Benz’s broader strategy to build a comprehensive EV charging ecosystem. This includes the launch of Mercedes-Benz High-Power Charging in North America in November 2023, which aims to provide a premium charging experience with Mercedes-Benz branded 400kW chargers. The company is also a part of the IONNA joint venture with seven other automakers, planning to establish approximately 30,000 high-power charging points across North America. These initiatives demonstrate Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to accelerating EV adoption by ensuring convenient and widespread charging access for all electric vehicle drivers. With the Tesla Supercharger network integration, Mercedes-Benz is solidifying its position as a leader in the luxury EV market, providing its customers with an unparalleled charging experience.
