Mercedes Adopts Tesla's NACS Connector; Is This The Beginning Of The End For CCS?

Mercedes-Benz is thelatest to adoptTesla's North American Charging Standard (NACS),following brands such as General Motors, Ford, and Rivian. This officially makes Mercedes-Benz the first German automaker to follow the latest trend among EV brands.

Starting in 2024, Mercedes-Benz EV owners will gain access to Tesla's supercharger network in the US and charge using an adapter that enables the company's Combined Charging System (CCS). The automaker will implement NACS ports into its new EVs the following year.

"Our strategic priority is clear: Building the world's most desirable cars. To accelerate the shift to electric vehicles, we are dedicated to elevating the entire EV experience for our customers - including fast, convenient, and reliable charging solutions whenever their Mercedes-Benz takes them," said Ola Kallenius, Chairman of the Board of Mercedes-Benz Group AG.

Mercedes-Benz's move to adopt the NACS will coincide with its massive step to establish its own high-power charging network, strengthening its EV ecosystem.

The first charging hub in the US equipped with both CCS1 and NACS plugs is scheduled to be opened by the end of 2023. By the decade's end, the company aims to inaugurate more than 400 charging hubs in North America.

Globally, the automaker looks to open more than 2,000 charging hubs in North America, Europe, China, and other core markets.

"With the development of Mercedes-Benz's new North American High-Power Charging Network, we are ready to redefine the electric vehicle charging experience. We're building on our strong brand promise here by leveraging the renowned quality, reputation, and customer focus for which Mercedes-Benz has been known for well over a century," said Andrew Cornelia, CEO of Mercedes-Benz HPC North America.