Mercedes-Benz and Starbucks have joined forces to set up fast electric vehicle chargers at 100 Starbucks locations along Interstate 5, spanning from Canada to Mexico on the West Coast.
This initiative is part of Mercedes-Benz’s $1 billion plan to establish 2,000 new EV charging hubs globally. The first station, equipped with a stylish waiting area and 400kW charging speeds from ChargePoint, debuted in Atlanta last year.
The collaboration between Mercedes and Starbucks aims to identify opportunities in key markets for further installations, focusing on urban areas, charging deserts, and important travel routes.
Starbucks is providing space in its parking lots for the charging stalls and equipment, while MN8 Energy, a subsidiary of Goldman Sachs Asset Management specializing in solar power and energy storage, will cover 50% of the project costs.
While many automakers are adjusting their EV strategies due to slower growth than anticipated, Mercedes has decided to continue selling gas-powered vehicles after 2030, in addition to EVs.
One of the main challenges in setting up new charging stations is finding real estate partners willing to accommodate the necessary equipment for DC fast charging, which includes plugs, charging stalls, transformers, and load centers.
Charging an EV differs significantly from refueling a gas car, as it can take up to an hour to recharge a battery compared to less than five minutes to refill a gas tank.
Mercedes’ decision to place chargers at Starbucks reflects an understanding that EV owners prefer to enjoy a latte and relax at a coffee shop while waiting for their batteries to recharge.
Other automakers, such as Volkswagen with Electrify America and Tesla with Supercharger stations, have also integrated charging infrastructure into retail locations to enhance the charging experience for EV owners.
Starbucks has previously partnered with Volvo to install charging stations along highways connecting Seattle and Denver, showcasing the growing trend of collaboration between automakers and popular retail chains in promoting EV adoption.
