Mercedes-Benz To Install EV Chargers At Over 100 Starbucks Locations – CleanTechnica

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Mercedes-Benz is expanding its North American EV charging network. Here at CleanTechnica, we have covered several of the developments as it grows. Paul Fosse wrote about the Atlanta area hub and took quite a few photos. I conducted an interview and found out about the many additional hubs. All of them will be powered by clean energy. This fact is important because EV critics and trolls sometimes try to claim that electric vehicles run on electricity generated from fossil fuels. There are plenty of EVs that don’t, and some run on a mix of electricity from clean energy and electricity from fossil fuels. Grids are also steadily getting cleaner as more and more solar power, wind power, and geothermal are added while fossil fuels are phased out. 

This year, Mercedes announced that it is installing its fast chargers at some Buc-ee’s locations as well. Recently, Mercedes-Benz High-Power Charging and Starbucks partnered, so Mercedes can install its fast EV chargers at over 100 Starbucks locations. Mercedes-Benz High-Power Charging answered some questions about the new charging locations and chargers for CleanTechnica.

Is there an exact figure for the number of Starbucks stores that will have Mercedes-Benz High-Power Charging?

Together, Mercedes-Benz High-Power Charging and Starbucks share a vision to electrify at least 100 Starbucks stores in the US. Starbucks stores are conveniently located both for daily visits and long-distance travel which is ideal to reduce the typical inconveniences around charging such as remote location, safety concerns, and lack of onsite amenities. A trip to Starbucks provides the perfect window to charge your vehicle while you enjoy your favorite Starbucks beverage. 

When will they all be installed, and will they all be fast chargers?

We are future-proofing our network with the best technology available. Starbucks locations will offer customers a reliable experience powered by 400 kW charging speeds and the capability to support vehicles with a wide voltage range, including those with an 800V architecture.

The first Mercedes-Benz High-Power Charging stations at Starbucks locations will begin installation in 2025.

How many will be installed along the I-5 corridor, and when will they be operational?

We’re in the process of finalizing our first locations and the total number of chargers along the corridor. Our vision is to electrify the I-5 and bring the freedom of travel back to one of the most trafficked highways in America. 

Will all the Mercedes chargers use clean, renewable electricity, and if so, where will it come from?

Yes, Mercedes-Benz High-Power Charging is powered by 100% clean energy. Where possible, we make direct use of clean energy. Where not possible, we will use Renewable Energy Certificates specifically purchased for the energy consumed at Mercedes-Benz High-Power Charging locations. So, no matter the vehicle brand the charge is completed with clean energy. Our goal is to promote the shift to sustainable, emission-free mobility.

How many Mercedes EV chargers will each Starbucks location have?

Thanks to the scalability of our modular concept, the charging locations can be equipped with different numbers of charging points. The number of chargers available at each Starbucks store will depend on characteristics of the specific location, though we anticipate there will be 4-10 charging points at each location.

Will all EV types be able to use the chargers?

Yes, Mercedes-Benz High-Power Charging locations are open to drivers of all vehicle brands. Additionally, NACS cables will be available across the network by the end of 2024 and will be installed at all Starbucks locations.

How does Mercedes decide where to locate an EV charger?

Starbucks locations are selected based on a number of factors including proximity to major transit corridors, areas of high EV penetration, locations identified as charging deserts, and customer feedback.

Will the new chargers be visible in Google Maps, EV charging apps, or EV onboard navigation systems?

Yes, Mercedes-Benz High-Power Charging stations are currently visible on Google Maps, Apple Maps, the top EV charging apps, and most onboard navigation units.