Mercedes-Benz has partnered with Starbucks to install fast chargers throughout the United States. According to the deal, the German automaker will set up 400 kW electric vehicle (EV) chargers at over 100 Starbucks sites along Interstate 5, from Canada in the North to Mexico in the South. This initiative is part of Mercedes-Benz’s Ambition 2039 and falls under their “High-Power Charging Network.”
Interestingly, this isn’t the first kind of deal. Swedish automaker Volvo also collaborated with Starbucks to place ChargePoint DC chargers in 15 locations.
Mercedes-Benz is spending over a billion dollars on its EV charger expansion plans. Meanwhile, Starbucks is not contributing financially to the deal but is providing its outlets as installation locations.
American EV maker Tesla currently has the largest charging network among all automakers in this sector. However, due to a recent decline in EV sales and shifting consumer preferences, several brands, including Mercedes, have modified their electrification strategies. Nevertheless, the charging network expansion is a positive development that tackles a major concern for EV users.
Last November, Mercedes-Benz introduced its first high-end EV charging stations for North America. The automaker collaborated with MN8 Energy, aiming to establish over 400 stations within ten years. To make these 400kW charging stations unique, the German company offers amenities like refreshments, lounge access, and restroom facilities.
The partnership with Starbucks aligns with Mercedes-Benz’s goal of combining fast charging convenience with comfort. It’s not always easy to find EV charging stations, especially off-road or in rural areas. Furthermore, it turns driving an electric car into a patience-testing challenge that requires careful planning of routes.
However, offering EV owners the opportunity to relax at Starbucks, sipping on their favorite coffee in an air-conditioned setting, would make waiting for charging more bearable. It’s uncertain if Starbucks will give reward points to EV owners who come to charge their cars and end up buying a coffee. But such a perk would definitely sweeten the deal.
