The German automaker is partnering with Alpitronic to deploy chargers that can deliver up to 600 kW, promising significantly shorter wait times for EV drivers.
Mercedes-Benz is preparing a substantial upgrade for its electric vehicle charging network. Starting next year, the German automaker will begin installing new DC fast chargers capable of delivering up to 600 kW of power to a single vehicle, a move set to enhance convenience and reduce charging stop times for EV owners.
This advancement comes through a strategic partnership with Alpitronic, a highly respected name in the EV charging sector. Mercedes-Benz will integrate Alpitronic's megawatt-capable stalls into its charging network across both Europe and North America.
The Technology Behind the Speed
At the heart of this upgrade is the Alpitronic HYC 1000 charging system. This technology features an external power unit, or "Power Cabinet," that provides up to 1,000 kilowatts (1 MW) at 800 amps. This central cabinet can supply power to multiple charging dispensers simultaneously.
A single Power Cabinet can support up to four individual stalls, each equipped with dual liquid-cooled cables. When a single EV is connected, and if the vehicle's technology permits, the stall can direct the full 600 kW (at 1,000 volts and 600 amps) to it. If multiple vehicles are charging, the system intelligently and dynamically allocates power across the active charging points.
This dynamic power distribution is crucial, as not all EVs are built to handle such high charging rates. For instance, the new Mercedes-Benz GLC with EQ Technology can accept an impressive 330 kW. However, other popular models like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 typically manage just over 200 kW, while the MG4 maxes out below 150 kW. Alpitronic's system ensures efficiency by delivering the appropriate amount of power to each vehicle without waste, as long as the total draw does not exceed the 1 MW capacity.
Future Ambitions and Network Expansion
The collaboration doesn't stop at 600 kW. Mercedes-Benz has confirmed it is working with Alpitronic to develop a true megawatt DC fast charger designed to output 1,000 kW to a single vehicle. The feasibility of this was demonstrated late last month when a prototype stall powered the Mercedes-AMG GT XX concept during a record-setting run, successfully delivering over 1,000 amps at approximately 1,000 volts through a single liquid-cooled CCS cable.
This move aligns with broader industry trends. Ionity, one of Europe's largest fast-charging operators in which Mercedes-Benz is a partner, also announced it will begin installing the same HYC 1000 system at its stations starting in 2026.
The Mercedes-Benz Charging Network currently operates around 80 hubs in key markets including Germany, Austria, Japan, China, and the United States. With expansion planned for eight additional countries, the automaker is on track to meet its goal of installing over 10,000 fast-charging stalls by the end of the decade, significantly bolstering the infrastructure for electric mobility.
