First of 10,000 High Speed EV Chargers
Back in January, Mercedes-Benz announced that it would be opening its own global high-speed charging network. Mercedes-branded, but accessible to drivers of all electric vehicles, the network will eventually offer 10,000 high-speed charging ports worldwide. And now, the company has announced that the first charging stations will open in the U.S. at Buc-ee’s travel centers in 2024.
EV Charging and Beaver Nuggets
The beloved chain of travel centers, known for its beaver nuggets, glazed nuts, and fudge, is also well known for having the cleanest and most modern highway rest facilities in the U.S.. Mercedes-Benz says that they will build charging stations at most existing Buc-ee’s locations, with about 30 opening by the end of next year.
Indeed, the companies say that work has already begun to construct Mercedes charging hubs at a number of Buc-ee’s locations, with a small number due to open by the end of 2023. Founded in 1982, Buc-ee’s has 34 travel centers in Texas, as well as locations in 12 other states, including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, South Carolina, and Tennessee. It has also broken ground on locations in Springfield, MO, Hillsboro, TX, Amarillo, TX, Harrison County, MS, Smiths Grove, KY, Luling, TX, and Johnstown, CO.
Charging Locations Along Major Routes
Buc-ee’s has locations along major travel routes, which means they are strategically located for large banks of high-speed EV chargers. Buc-ee’s locations along key routes in the south and southeastern U.S., including the Texas triangle, I-75 and I-95, will mean easy access to EV drivers in the coming years.
The company’s reputation for clean and accessible amenities and their convenience stores mean that EV drivers should be well-served while their EVs charge up. The two companies promise high-quality amenities like freshly prepared food and beverages, souvenirs, friendly service, and the most pristine bathrooms in the world.
Latest Renewable Charging Tech
Of course, Mercedes-Benz promises the latest in high-speed EV charging tech; the chargers should feature both CCS (combined charging system) and NACS (Tesla-style) charging ports to serve all EV brands. Mercedes-Benz drivers will also benefit from a more seamless charging experience linked to their vehicle’s app, making EQB, EQE, and EQS ownership even easier.
The Buc-ee’s Mercedes chargers will be powered using 100 percent renewable energy from MN8 Energy. A well-known name in renewable energy, MN8 owns and operates nearly 900 renewable energy projects across 28 states. Mercedes-Benz promises industry-leading charger uptime – a key factor in delivering a consistent, confident charging experience for EV drivers.