Mercedes-Benz is making a significant move to enhance the charging experience for its electric vehicle (EV) customers in North America. Starting in February 2025, drivers of Mercedes-Benz battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in the United States will gain access to Tesla’s expansive Supercharger network, encompassing over 20,000 chargers across the United States and Canada. Canadian drivers will gain access later in 2025. This strategic alliance will be facilitated through the Mercedes me Charge service, ensuring seamless “Plug & Charge” functionality at Tesla Supercharger locations. To accommodate current EV models, Mercedes-Benz will also offer a NACS to CCS1 adapter, and future models will incorporate the North American Charging Standard (NACS) ports directly from 2025 onwards.
Mercedes-Benz USA’s announcement underscores its commitment to building a comprehensive and convenient charging ecosystem for its growing portfolio of electric vehicles. This initiative directly addresses a key concern for EV adoption: charging accessibility. By integrating the Tesla Supercharger network, Mercedes-Benz significantly expands charging options for its customers, ensuring a smoother and more confident transition to electric mobility.
“As our portfolio of cutting-edge all-electric vehicles expands, providing convenient access to a widespread charging network is paramount for a seamless ownership experience,” stated Dimitris Psillakis, CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA. “Adopting the NACS standard and integrating the Tesla Supercharger network are crucial steps in our ongoing efforts to strengthen the foundation for bringing innovative and game-changing EVs to market. Alongside our dedicated dealer partners, we are committed to reshaping the future of mobility and setting new benchmarks within the luxury automotive sector.” This collaboration between Tesla Motors Mercedes Benz represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of EV infrastructure.
Expanding Charging Options with Tesla Superchargers
The integration of the Tesla Supercharger network into Mercedes me Charge marks a substantial increase in charging point availability for Mercedes-Benz EV drivers. Mercedes me Charge already provides access to numerous charging networks, including Mercedes-Benz High-Power Charging, IONNA, Electrify America, EVGo, and ChargePoint. With the addition of Tesla Superchargers, the Mercedes me Charge network will expand to encompass over 110,000 public charging points across the United States and Canada, offering an industry-leading charging experience.
Franz Reiner, Chairman of the Board of Management, Mercedes-Benz Mobility AG, emphasized this customer-centric approach: “By granting our customers access to Tesla Superchargers in North America, we reinforce our dedication to providing the most extensive charging options possible. The rapidly growing charging points within Mercedes me Charge will now exceed 110,000 across the US and Canada. This expansion ensures that Mercedes-Benz drivers enjoy an unparalleled charging experience, regardless of their location or charging needs.”
Seamless “Plug & Charge” Functionality
Mercedes-Benz BEV owners will benefit from the effortless “Plug & Charge” functionality at Tesla Superchargers. This feature streamlines the charging process by automatically initiating the charging session upon plugging in the vehicle and processing payments seamlessly in the background upon completion. To ensure smooth operation, a complimentary software update will be provided by authorized Mercedes-Benz dealerships for all compatible vehicles. Customers will be contacted directly to schedule this update. Charging can also be initiated via the Mercedes-Benz app or the intuitive MBUX infotainment system.
Tesla Superchargers will be fully integrated into Mercedes-Benz’s “Navigation with Electric Intelligence” system. This intelligent navigation feature optimizes routes by directing drivers to the most efficient path, factoring in charging stops and charging times. Furthermore, Mercedes me Charge provides real-time information on charger locations, availability, status, and pricing for all charging points within its network, accessible through both the Mercedes-Benz app and the MBUX infotainment system. This comprehensive integration ensures that Tesla Motors Mercedes Benz drivers have all the necessary tools for convenient and efficient charging.
Adapter Solution for Current EV Owners
Recognizing the needs of current Mercedes-Benz EV drivers with CCS1-compatible charging ports, the company will release a Mercedes-Benz-approved NACS to CCS1 DC fast charging adapter. This adapter will enable existing vehicles to utilize Tesla Superchargers and will be available for purchase at authorized Mercedes-Benz dealerships in the United States in Q1 2025 for $185, and in Canada in Q2 2025, with Canadian pricing to be announced closer to launch. Customers will be notified when adapters become available. Mercedes-Benz emphasizes that this NACS to CCS1 adapter is the only adapter rigorously tested and certified for safety and full compatibility with all Mercedes-Benz BEVs and NACS DC fast charging points, ensuring peace of mind for users.
Future Integration of NACS
Looking ahead, Mercedes-Benz will begin incorporating NACS ports directly into its new electric vehicle lineup in North America starting in 2025. This strategic move eliminates the need for an adapter for future models, further simplifying the charging process and ensuring direct compatibility with the vast Tesla Supercharger network. This commitment to NACS underscores Mercedes-Benz’s long-term vision for convenient and accessible EV charging.
Mercedes-Benz’s Holistic Charging Ecosystem
The adoption of NACS and the integration of the Tesla Supercharger network are integral components of Mercedes-Benz’s comprehensive approach to EV charging. In November 2023, Mercedes-Benz launched its High-Power Charging network in North America, aiming to elevate the public charging experience with Mercedes-Benz-branded 400kW chargers. This network is expanding rapidly across key states, with plans to reach half of US states by 2026. Additionally, the IONNA joint venture, a collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and seven other major automakers, is set to launch its first charging stations this year, paving the way for a network of 30,000 high-power charging points across North America. These initiatives, combined with the Tesla Motors Mercedes Benz Supercharger access, solidify Mercedes-Benz’s position as a leader in providing a robust and user-friendly EV charging ecosystem, driving the broader adoption of electric vehicles.
This strategic partnership between Tesla Motors Mercedes Benz is poised to significantly improve the EV ownership experience for Mercedes-Benz customers, enhancing convenience and accessibility within the expanding electric vehicle landscape.
