Mercedes-Benz And Starbucks Partner For EV Charging Station Across USA

In a move to improve electric vehicle (EV) adoption, Mercedes-Benz and Starbucks announced a partnership today to install high-powered charging stations at over 100 Starbucks locations across the United States.

Mercedes-Benz High-Power Charging division has $1 billion dedicated to building this new public charging network. The initial phase focuses on Starbucks locations along Interstate 5, targeting over 100 stores with high-powered 400 kW DC fast chargers. These stations offer a substantial advantage over standard options, significantly reducing charging times for EV drivers. Looking ahead, the ambitious project aims to expand to nearly half of all U.S. states within the next 18 months, reaching beyond I-5 to include major cities and underserved areas.

This partnership between Mercedes-Benz and Starbucks offers a win-win for both companies and EV drivers. Mercedes-Benz expands its charging network, making electric vehicles more appealing to potential buyers. Starbucks strengthens its commitment to sustainability by providing clean energy options for its customers. Most importantly, EV drivers benefit from the convenience of charging their vehicles while enjoying a coffee break at a familiar location. The use of high-powered charging stations significantly reduces charging times, making the process quicker and less disruptive to road trips. This collaboration has the potential to become a major step forward in EV infrastructure, addressing range anxiety and making electric vehicles a more practical choice for everyday drivers.

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Acknowledging the current limitations of EV infrastructure, Andrew Cornelia, head of Mercedes-Benz's EV charging division, emphasises the significance of this partnership. Its goal is to make charging an electric car as convenient and enjoyable as grabbing a coffee at Starbucks. This points towards a future where EV charging becomes seamlessly integrated into everyday routines, eliminating a major barrier to widespread EV adoption.

Highlighting Starbucks' commitment to sustainability, Michael Kobori, chief sustainability officer, mentioned the company's excitement about the partnership. He sees it as an opportunity to not only expand its existing EV charging network but also empower customers to make environmentally friendly choices. By offering charging stations alongside Starbucks can seamlessly integrate sustainability into the customer experience, making it easier for people to choose eco-friendly transportation options.