If you’re considering one of the all-electric models here at Mercedes-Benz of Cincinnati, you may be wondering about the types of electric vehicle chargers compatible with Mercedes-Benz EVs. Below, we’ve answered some common questions related to plug and charger compatibility, the future of Mercedes-Benz EV charging, and more.
It’s easy to charge a Mercedes-Benz EV, thanks to the Mercedes me connect app. Accessible from your smart device, Mercedes me connect has a feature called Mercedes me Charge which shows you nearby, compatible charging stations. The app also helps you connect digitally to each station and pay for charging with your pre-loaded payment information. Mercedes-Benz EVs are compatible with over 60,000 stations on some of the nation’s largest networks, including Electrify America®, EVgo®, and ChargePoint®. When you buy an EV here at Mercedes-Benz of Cincinnati, we’ll help you get set up with Mercedes me Charge before you head home in your new vehicle.
Charging at Electrify America® stations, and all other compatible chargers, is easy. First, either use Mercedes me Charge or the MBUX navigation system in your vehicle to locate a charging station, then drive there. If you choose an Electrify America® station, you can simply plug in and start charging once you arrive, thanks to the Plug & Charge program that’s available at Electrify America® stations for select models. At other stations, you will have to scan your RFID card before plugging in. Once your EV has reached the level of charge you want, simply unplug and be on your way. For more information, visit our dedicated page on all things EVs.
This is a good question, as there are a few different plug and charger types. At home, you can use the Mobile Flex Charging Cable, which comes with Mercedes-Benz EV purchases, for Level 1 and Level 2 AC-voltage charging. The integrated connectors at public Level 2 chargers, known as J1772 connectors, are compatible with Mercedes-Benz EVs.
At a fast charger, you’ll use the station's integrated connector, which will be a type of charging cable and plug that can handle DC voltage. As of 2024, Mercedes-Benz EVs in North America are only compatible with Combined Charging System (CCS) Type 1 fast chargers. EVs from most major brands work with the CCS system (aside from Tesla — more on that in the next section), and networks like Electrify America®, EVgo®, and ChargePoint® use the CCS system.
As of May 2024, Mercedes-Benz vehicles are not compatible with Tesla chargers. Tesla uses a different charging system than other manufacturers: the North American Charging Standard (NACS). NACS is a hybrid system that provides both Level 2 and DC fast charging.
NACS-compatible charging cables have a differently shaped plug than those compatible with CCS, so you currently can’t even plug into a Tesla Supercharger to power up a Mercedes-Benz, much less have the system recognize the vehicle. This system has been unique to Tesla up until now, though things are set to change soon.
It was recently announced that a variety of EV manufacturers, including Mercedes-Benz, have partnered with Tesla to begin offering NACS adapters. This will allow drivers with CCS-compatible vehicles to charge at Tesla Superchargers. Mercedes-Benz NACS adapter availability will begin in 2024, though Mercedes-Benz has yet to announce an exact date. Additionally, starting in 2025, the brands partnered with Telsa will begin including NACS charging ports in their new vehicles (most likely in addition to CCS ports), according to U.S. News and World Report. Mercedes-Benz is also building over 2,500 high-powered chargers of its own throughout North America, aiming to create a top-tier charging experience for its EV owners.
If you have any further questions, we have EV experts on our team who are ready to help. Mercedes-Benz of Cincinnati is your EV headquarters here in southwest Ohio, and we look forward to welcoming you to our state-of-the-art showroom soon.
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