Exciting news for electric vehicle (EV) enthusiasts and fans of the iconic Buc-ee’s travel centers! The beloved Texas-based travel center chain, known for its cult following, is teaming up with Mercedes-Benz to introduce a network of high-speed charging hubs at select Buc-ee’s locations. This partnership is set to revolutionize the EV charging landscape in the South and Southeast, particularly along major transit routes like I-75 and I-95.
Revolutionizing EV Charging at Buc-ee’s: A Mercedes-Benz Partnership
Buc-ee’s and Mercedes-Benz are set to roll out approximately 30 charging hubs by the end of 2024. However, the ambitious plan extends further, with Mercedes-Benz aiming to bring charging infrastructure to most Buc-ee’s travel centers.
This strategic move underscores the commitment to electrifying the nation’s highways and making long-distance EV travel more accessible and convenient.
Mercedes-Benz’s foray into the EV charging infrastructure domain began in January with the announcement of their intention to establish over 400 charging hubs by 2027 under the banner of “Mercedes-Benz HPC North America.” To achieve this ambitious goal, Mercedes partnered with ChargePoint, a leading provider of EV charging solutions, and MN8 Energy, a company specializing in solar and battery-storage solutions.
Mercedes-Benz’s Expansive EV Infrastructure Vision
This environmentally conscious approach ensures that these Mercedes charging hubs will rely on entirely renewable energy sources to recharge their customers’ EVs.
Notably, Mercedes-Benz HPC North America predates a recent announcement involving Mercedes and six other automakers who are collaborating on an additional fast-charging network. While the specific details about which charging standards will be used at the Mercedes-Benz HPC chargers remain undisclosed, it’s reasonable to assume that both CCS1 and NACS plugs will be featured.
Diverse Charging Standards: What Can EV Drivers Expect?
This assumption is supported by Mercedes’ previous decision to switch from CCS1 to NACS, as well as ChargePoint’s NACS compatibility. Importantly, these charging hubs will be accessible to all EV brands, not exclusive to Mercedes EVs.
In the words of Andrew Cornelia, the President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz HPC NA, “Mercedes-Benz HPC North America’s collaboration with Buc-ee’s represents an important moment in our pursuit of a national charging network that sets a new standard in both convenience and quality.
Redefining the EV Charging Experience: Buc-ee’s and Mercedes-Benz Unite
Within a remarkably short period, we’ve made significant strides towards opening several charging hubs at Buc-ee’s travel centers. Buc-ee’s strategic locations along major travel routes, combined with their commitment to clean and accessible amenities, aligns perfectly with our vision. Together, we’re not only providing exceptional value but also redefining the EV charging experience for drivers nationwide.”
For a unique perspective on this exciting partnership, we turned to our senior technology editor and native Texan, Lee Hutchinson, who shared his thoughts. “As a native Texan, seeing a Buc-ee’s sign on the horizon means great bad food and clean bathrooms, not necessarily in that order. Glad to see that EV drivers will soon have access to Buc-ee’s strategic jerky reserves,” Hutchinson told us.
With Buc-ee’s and Mercedes-Benz joining forces to reshape the EV charging landscape, it’s evident that clean restrooms and tasty snacks are just the beginning of the amenities EV drivers can expect at these innovative charging hubs.
