In a significant development within the automotive industry, Mercedes-Benz is reportedly contemplating the adoption of Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS). If the German automaker proceeds, it would join the growing list of major car manufacturers embracing Tesla’s charging connector.
Recently, notable players such as Ford and General Motors announced their decision to adopt Tesla’s NACS connector for their vehicles starting in 2025. This move has triggered a ripple effect, leading charging companies like Blink and ChargePoint to follow suit. However, other prominent automakers are also exploring the possibility of incorporating Tesla’s connector.
Earlier this week, we shared that Stellantis was among the companies contemplating the adoption of the NACS connector. However, Mercedes-Benz is now emerging as another automaker considering this transition. Sources indicate that the company is currently evaluating the technical implementation of the connector, which would enable its vehicles to connect to Tesla Superchargers, should an agreement be reached between the two companies.
Tesla’s motivation behind this initiative stems from its overarching mission to expedite the global transition towards sustainable energy, even beyond its own brand. One significant advantage Tesla possesses as an electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer is its extensive charging network, which remains the most comprehensive worldwide. In contrast, other charging companies have encountered challenges in terms of dependability. Consequently, Tesla’s Supercharging Network, with its 45,000+ locations across the globe, stands out as an attractive option for prospective EV buyers.
By adopting Tesla’s charging connector, automakers aim to enhance their customers’ overall charging and ownership experience. The connector’s reliability and widespread availability make it an ideal choice for expanding the EV market. As the “NACS Coalition,” as coined by Tesla CEO Elon Musk, gains traction, industry leaders are increasingly recognizing the benefits of embracing this standardized charging solution.
The automotive landscape continues to evolve as more companies consider joining the NACS movement. Mercedes-Benz’s deliberations highlight the growing interest and potential for collaboration within the industry. While negotiations are ongoing, the prospect of Mercedes-Benz vehicles seamlessly connecting to Tesla Superchargers represents a promising step towards a more connected and sustainable future for electric mobility.
