European chargepoint operator, Electra, has purchased all 47 of Mercedes-Benz’s high-power EV charging hubs across Europe, with the hubs now joining Electra’s own network. It marks a significant expansion to Electra’s own footprint, particularly in Germany, where the number of hubs it operates will rise from 50 to 81. Outside of Europe, Mercedes-Benz Charging Hub locations remain under OEM ownership or other agreements.
Mercedes pulls out of European public charging business
Announced in a press release from Electra, the deal also sets up a wider partnership between the two companies. Electra’s pan-European network will become available through Mercedes-Benz’s MB.CHARGE Public roaming service, which already gives drivers access to more than one million charge points across Europe.
Under the agreement, all 47 European Mercedes-Benz Charging Hubs, consisting of 374 charge points, will join the Electra network. It marks a change of plan for Mercedes, who has opened brands in several markets since launching the network a few years ago, with locations such as North America and Japan.
Mercedes hasn’t said exactly why its sold these sites, but this moves suggests this decision is part of a wider move to cut costs. It isn’t alone though, with other European automakers also reviewing their spending – Volkswagen this week announced that development of the ID. Golf would be paused.
Aurélien de Meaux, CEO of Electra, commented:
“Mercedes-Benz built charging hubs to a standard few networks match. We are proud they chose Electra to carry that standard forward, and to open our entire network to their drivers with preferential rates, reservation and access straight from the car. This partnership is a milestone for Electra in Germany and across Europe.”
Nico Dettmer, Global Head of Mercedes-Benz Charging Solutions, added:
“Electric mobility is about more than the car. At Mercedes-Benz, our ambition is to deliver a seamless and exceptional customer experience regardless of the powertrain. Charging is an essential part of that promise for our EV customers. Together with Electra, we are making fast charging across Europe even more accessible and convenient, adding more than 800 locations to our premium partnership network and bringing a seamless charging experience to our customers.”
