Mercedes-Benz Plans to Install Its Own Network of EV Chargers

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plans to build its own global network of electric-vehicle chargers, making it one of the few major car companies aside from Tesla Inc. to invest directly in such a project.

The German luxury auto maker said Thursday during an event at CES in Las Vegas that it intends to install roughly 10,000 high-power EV chargers worldwide, starting in the U.S. and Canada this year.

The Mercedes-Benz-branded network would allow the car company’s own customers to pre-book a charging space from their car, but it will also be open to drivers of rival brands with compatible technology.

By 2027, its network in North America is expected to total more than 400 hubs, providing 2,500 EV chargers.

Mercedes-Benz says the build out in North America is projected to cost about $1.05 billion, a figure that will be split with its partner on the project, MN8 Energy, a U.S.-based renewable energy and battery-storage operator.