USA: Mercedes-Benz announces location partner for own HPC network

The carmaker's plan to build its own global high-power charging network in North America is starting to take shape. Mercedes-Benz HPC North America announces a partnership with Simon Property Group, the largest shopping mall operator in the US.

The agreement provides for the installation of Mercedes-Benz branded HPC stations at 55 Simon properties. It is the first concrete announcement about charging locations for Mercedes’ own HPC network. In January, the carmaker announced that it wanted to up network of fast-chargers in North America, Europe, China, and other key markets. The goal is to install over 10,000 ultra-rapid chargers worldwide by the end of this decade.

The deal between the two companies is about more than just charging locations. As Mercedes points out in its press release, it also includes the “placement of Mercedes-Benz advertising across Simon’s out-of-home media infrastructure,” [and the] “utilisation of Simon centres for Mercedes-Benz vehicle launches, vehicle displays, and test-drive opportunities where drivers already go to shop, live, work and play.”

“This collaboration underscores our commitment to delivering a high-quality charging experience to every driver – which extends beyond the vehicle and to the amenities and experiences that drivers can access while they charge,” says Andrew Cornelia, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz HPC North America LLC. Cornelia only became CEO of the company in June.

“We are committed to building EV charging sites across the Simon portfolio,” adds Chip Harding, Senior Vice President of Simon Media & Experiences. “Moreover, we look forward to continuing that growth with Mercedes-Benz, a brand that shares our vision to deliver best-in-class experiences for customers and for the communities that we serve.”

Mercedes-Benz is also part of a consortium of seven carmakers that joined forces to build a fast-charging network with at least 30,000 charging points in North America. The other partners are BMW, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, and Stellantis. “The company’s own Mercedes-Benz Charging Network consisting of branded charging hubs is the next important step in the company’s electrification strategy,” the carmaker concludes its statement to the press.

businesswire.com