Tesla is losing its Supercharger advantage, as rivals like GM/Mercedes build their own networks

This week at CES in Las Vegas, Mercedes announced it is launching its own version of Tesla’s Supercharger network.Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes announced this week at CES that it will launch a “high power” EV charging network. However, other automakers are trying to catch up.

As more of the auto industry’s rivals create their own networks of plug-in points, Tesla may lose its Supercharger advantage.

Tesla’s Supercharger network has been a major advantage over any other company, and it continues to do so. Tesla claims it has more than 40,000 charging stations around the world. Until recently, however, chargers could only have been used by Tesla vehicles. The company plans to offer a membership to non-Tesla owners so they can use the plugs.

This means Tesla has an advantage: potential and current buyers Elon Musk’s cars know that there is a better network to help them.

Other automakers are now making their own moves in the charging market, as a lack of public charging stations is a major barrier to widespread EV adoption. A recent Deloitte 2023 global automotive consumer survey found that 46% of respondents in the US cited lack of public charging infrastructure to be a barrier to going electric.

Mercedes has announced its version of Tesla’s Supercharger network at CES Las Vegas. Mercedes owners will be able to reserve a plug in advance, taking out the stress from road trips. The car can be communicated with by the station to pay, which reduces the need for confusing apps or credit cards.

Mercedes’ network will have more than 10,000 charging stations in North America, Europe and China. All automaker brands will be able to access it.

According to Thursday’s release, the company will begin building the network in the US and Canada this year. It will target “key cities” and urban centers close to major arteries, convenient retail, and service destinations.

Mercedes aims to have 400 hubs and 2,500 charging stations across North America by 2027. The automaker has partnered with MN8 Energy, a solar energy and battery storage company, and ChargePoint, a charging giant. The automaker estimates that the North American investment will be more than $1.07 billion.

GM is also establishing a “Ultium Char 360” charging network across North America. Detroit’s automaker is aiming to install 40,000 Level-2 chargers in partnership with dealers. They will choose the best locations within their communities where the plug would be most useful.

Business Insider has the original article.
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By: astjohn@insider.com (Alexa St. John)
Title: Tesla is losing its Supercharger advantage as rivals like GM and Mercedes build their own networks
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/tesla-supercharger-network-electric-vehicle-charging-infrastructure-gm-mercedes-2023-1
Published Date: Thu, 05 Jan 2023 18:56:51 +0000