Starbucks and Mercedes-Benz are revolutionizing the electric vehicle (EV) charging experience by bringing high-power charging stations to over 100 Starbucks locations across the United States. This groundbreaking partnership aims to make charging your EV as convenient as grabbing your favorite coffee, enhancing the EV ownership experience by combining it with the comfort and familiarity of Starbucks.
Charging Convenience Along I-5
The first phase of this initiative will see the installation of 400-kilowatt DC fast chargers at select Starbucks stores along the iconic I-5 corridor, which stretches from Canada to Mexico along the West Coast. These chargers, capable of delivering a significant power boost to EVs, will be strategically placed in urban areas and charging deserts, ensuring that EV drivers have access to reliable and quick charging options.
“The collaboration between two leading brands like Mercedes-Benz and Starbucks will uplift the charging experience for all EV drivers,” said Andrew Cornelia, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz High-Power Charging. By integrating EV chargers into Starbucks locations, the partnership aims to provide a seamless and enjoyable charging experience, making it easier for drivers to recharge both their vehicles and themselves.
Expanding EV Infrastructure
This collaboration is part of a broader trend among various businesses to integrate EV charging infrastructure into their locations. Convenience stores and travel stops like 7/11 and Love’s are also making significant strides in this area. For these businesses, the incentive is clear: by providing EV charging, they attract a captive audience that spends more time and money on their premises.
It sounds blunt, but as long as you’re there and charging, you might as well spend a few dollars on a cup of coffee or a snack.
Mercedes-Benz is investing $1 billion in its charging network, with plans to extend this infrastructure to nearly half of the US states within the next 12-18 months. This includes high-power charging hubs equipped with amenities like restrooms and vending machines. The partnership with Starbucks is a strategic move to place chargers in locations that offer a comfortable and familiar environment for EV owners.
Innovative Charging Solutions
The Mercedes-Benz chargers installed at Starbucks will be capable of delivering 400 kilowatts of power, a level of charging efficiency that exceeds the capabilities of current US EV models. This forward-thinking approach ensures that the infrastructure is future-proofed as EV technology continues to advance. Additionally, these chargers will be compatible with all EV brands, not just Mercedes-Benz, promoting inclusivity and widespread adoption. Not taking the selective route means that all EV owners can enjoy their Starbucks while waiting for their vehicle to recharge.
A Sustainable Vision
“At Starbucks, we have a long history of bringing renewable and clean energy projects to connect communities that lack the infrastructure,” said Michael Kobori, Starbucks chief sustainability officer. “Partnering with Mercedes is the next step in expanding our EV charging network so our customers can refuel sustainably while they enjoy Starbucks.”
The initiative aligns with Mercedes-Benz’s goal of going fully electric, contributing to the development of a robust and user-friendly public charging network. It also supports Starbucks’ commitment to sustainability, providing an environmentally friendly option for customers. As EV sales continue to grow, the need for accessible and convenient charging solutions becomes increasingly critical, and partnerships like this one are paving the way for a more sustainable future.
The Starbucks and Mercedes-Benz partnership marks a significant milestone in the evolution of EV infrastructure. By integrating high-power chargers into popular and accessible locations, they are setting a new standard for convenience and sustainability. This collaboration not only enhances the charging experience for EV owners but also supports the broader goal of reducing emissions and promoting clean energy solutions. So next time you stop for a coffee, you might just find yourself plugging in your EV and enjoying a seamless, eco-friendly refuel.
There’s still a lot of work to be done in terms of bringing a charger to your favorite spot, but the Mercedes and Starbucks partnership means that we’re on the right track.
