Mercedes-Benz has announced that its electric vehicles (EVs) will gain access to Tesla's vast Supercharger network, starting in February. This move marks a significant expansion of public EV charging options, with Tesla boasting over 20,000 stalls in the US and Canada.

This development follows a familiar pattern, where manufacturers first access Tesla's network using NACS-to-CCS adapters, followed by native NACS integration later on. The adapters, produced by EV charging supplier Lectron, will be available for purchase through authorized dealerships at a price of $185. According to Mercedes spokesperson Andrew Brudnicki, the Lectron adapter has been tested for safety and compatibility with Mercedes-Benz EVs and offers advantages such as a more robust interlock connection between the cable and adapter.

Mercedes-Benz will become the seventh automaker to gain access to Tesla's Supercharger network, joining the likes of Ford, General Motors, Rivian, Volvo, Polestar, and Nissan. The company had initially hoped to finalize the agreement with Tesla by 2024, but the delay is likely attributed to Elon Musk's busy schedule last year. Volkswagen is also planning to open access to Tesla's network this summer, as reported by PC Magazine.

It's worth noting that European EV owners have long enjoyed access to Tesla's Superchargers, thanks to a more standardized approach to technology in the region. In contrast, North American residents have had to wait for individual manufacturers to strike agreements with Tesla.

Mercedes-Benz plans to integrate Tesla Supercharger locations into its charger map in its app, allowing users to seamlessly find and access charging points. The system will also be compatible with the company's Plug & Charge feature, which enables charging to initiate automatically upon plugging in, without requiring additional steps or authorizations.

Later this year, Mercedes-Benz will begin rolling out its first vehicles with factory-installed NACS ports, although the specific models have not been disclosed. The company's EV lineup includes the luxurious EQS, the more affordable EQE and EQB, and the electric G-Wagen.

Mercedes-Benz is actively involved in various EV charging expansion projects, including the installation of thousands of fast chargers with solar company MN8 Energy and the Ionna venture, alongside several other major OEMs. This move to access Tesla's Supercharger network is a significant step forward in expanding public EV charging infrastructure and enhancing the overall EV ownership experience.

As the electric vehicle market continues to grow, collaborations like this between manufacturers and charging networks will play a crucial role in addressing range anxiety and promoting widespread adoption of EVs. With Mercedes-Benz joining the ranks of Tesla's Supercharger network, the possibilities for seamless, convenient EV charging are expanding rapidly.