Mercedes-Benz and Japanese battery technology company PowerX have opened their first jointly developed fast-charging station in Japan, located in the city of Chiba. The launch marks the beginning of a broader rollout, with 100 high-power charging (HPC) units planned across 25 locations in Japan by the end of 2026.
The new charging hub features PowerX’s Hypercharger system, which includes two CHAdeMO charging stations offering up to 120 kW of power, with a 150 kW boost mode available for short periods. Unlike earlier Mercedes charging locations, this site debuts custom-built Mercedes-Benz-branded charging stations with a large touchscreen interface.
The facility is supported by a battery storage unit, though specific energy capacity figures were not disclosed. According to PowerX’s specifications, the system typically includes a 358 kWh battery storage module.
Although developed in partnership with Mercedes-Benz, the Chiba hub is open to all electric vehicle users. Non-Mercedes drivers can access the chargers using the PowerX app, while Mercedes customers can utilize the automaker’s proprietary charging service. Charging sessions are limited to 30 minutes per user.
The partnership between Mercedes-Benz High Power Charging Japan G.K. (MBHPCJ) and PowerX aims to increase the accessibility of EV infrastructure in Japan. Upcoming projects include a larger four-point fast-charging hub set to open in Kashiwa, also in Chiba Prefecture, in August, and another similar facility scheduled for September in Tokyo’s Setagaya ward.
Mercedes-Benz has been actively expanding its EV charging network worldwide. In the U.S., its Ionna joint venture launched its first charging park earlier this year, followed by a plan to install 500 ultra-fast charging stalls at retail locations. In China, Mercedes and BMW are jointly building a network targeting 1,000 fast-charging sites with 7,000 individual chargers across 100 cities by the end of 2026.