Mercedes-Benz has expanded its Mercedes me Charge network, now encompassing over 1.5 million charging points worldwide. This network, one of the most extensive globally, spans across more than 1,300 charge point operators, marking a pivotal step in Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to an all-electric future.
The Mercedes me Charge service offers a comprehensive charging solution for Mercedes-Benz drivers. This service not only facilitates operator-independent charging but also ensures transparent pricing and automated billing. The integration into the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) system enhances the charging experience. The system’s navigation feature efficiently plans routes, including charging stops, and allows for easy charging initiation through the vehicle display or via the Plug & Charge function.
Franz Reiner, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Mobility AG, highlighted the network’s growth, stating, “Mercedes me Charge is one of the fastest-growing charging networks. In 2023, an average of 40,000 charging points were integrated every month. By doing so, we provide our customers a comprehensive network featuring transparent prices and easy access. Mercedes me Charge fulfils essential customer needs for public charging.”
The network’s geographic spread is impressive. In Europe alone, it includes approximately 600,000 charging points, over 800,000 in Asia, and around 100,000 in North America. These stations are strategically located in city centers, shopping malls, hotels, and along highways. For instance, in Germany, the network comprises more than 100,000 charging points, covering over 90 percent of the country’s charging infrastructure. Notably, out of the total 1.5 million points, 170,000 are high-powered, offering 150 kW or more.
Mercedes-Benz’s dedication to sustainable mobility is further evident in its efforts to support renewable energy. In Europe, the US, and Canada, the company ensures that equivalent amounts of electricity from renewable sources are fed into the grid for the charging processes within the Mercedes me Charge network.
The ease of use is a key feature of the Mercedes me Charge service. The MBUX system’s Electric Intelligence navigation calculates the most efficient route, including necessary charging stops. Authentication methods are versatile, including options through the MBUX display, the Mercedes me app, the Mercedes me Charge RFID card, or directly via Plug & Charge.
Transparent pricing and flexible tariffs enhance the customer experience. Users can view specific costs per kilowatt-hour or per minute, and estimate the total charging cost via the MBUX display or Mercedes me app. In Europe, customers can opt for fixed-price charging irrespective of the operator, choosing from three smart charging tariffs (S, M, L) based on their individual needs.
Looking forward, Mercedes-Benz plans to expand the Mercedes me Charge network significantly. This expansion will include the 10,000 charging points of the Mercedes-Benz Charging Network, planned by the end of the decade, and existing collaborations like the European joint venture IONITY and initiatives in North America and China. All these will be fully integrated into the Mercedes me Charge network, reinforcing Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to a seamless, sustainable, and customer-centric electric mobility future.
