You can now use your electric Mercedes-Benz’s infotainment system to search and pay for charging instead of having to rely on your smartphone.
The German carmaker has taken its partnership with electric vehicle (EV) charging network Chargefox further as it “fully integrates” its charging services through the Mercedes me Charge service.
What this means is you can now find and navigate to any Chargefox EV charger, start the charging session, then finish and pay for the charging session using either the Mercedes-Benz’s infotainment system, Mercedes me phone app, or the Mercedes me Charge RFID card.
Previously you could navigate to a Chargefox charger using the car’s satellite navigation system, but only use either the Chargefox phone app or RFID card to start and finish the charging sessions.
This integration allows select Mercedes-Benz EV owners “seamless access” to over 2700 Chargefox charging plugs across Australia.
It’s worth noting certain new Mercedes-Benz EVs come with complimentary Chargefox subscriptions when they’re purchased. The maximum duration is up to five years but it varies from model to model.
The Mercedes me Charge service has been available in numerous other markets with other EV charging providers for years, but it’s only launching in Australia with Chargefox now.
Globally Mercedes-Benz offers access to over 1.5 million charging plugs through Mercedes me Charge in conjunction with over 1300 EV charging providers.
“Mercedes me Charge is one of the fastest-growing charging networks,” said Mercedes-Benz Mobility AG CEO Franz Reiner in January 2024.
“In 2023, an average of 40,000 charging points were integrated every month. By doing so, we provide our customers a comprehensive network featuring transparent prices and easy access.
“Mercedes me Charge fulfils essential customer needs for public charging.”
“We are thrilled to collaborate with one of the world’s most prestigious automakers to bring seamless charging solutions to their drivers,” said Chargefox CEO John Sullivan.
“This partnership highlights how an Australian innovator like Chargefox can work hand-in-hand with an industry giant to enhance the electric vehicle ownership and charging experience.”