Stepping into 2024, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia is not just focusing on expanding its EQ electric models series lineup, but also its DC fast charging network. This is aside from chargers developed in collaboration with energy solutions providers such as Gentari.
During the Malaysian market launch of the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV 500 4MATIC yesterday, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia announced that it will be expanding its DC fast charging network which is located at its retail partners (previously referred to as dealerships) moving forward.
Back in 2022, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia revealed its plan to install 13 DC fast chargers across its showrooms, mainly across Peninsular Malaysia. Charging was also said to be free of charge for EQ customers till the end of 2023.
However, beyond 2023, charges will be implemented in the form of corporate charging subscriptions for the company’s business and fleet customers. For now, the chargers will only be made available to Mercedes-Benz EV vehicles that are being serviced at the brand’s service centres.
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This is also done to make sure that its customers can get access to the chargers when needed, and for the chargers to not be used as a “fueling” station. At the present moment, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has no plans to open up its chargers for public use just yet. Currently, the DC fast chargers come in various specifications and can output up to DC charging rates of 130 kW.
When asked about its electrification goals for its lineup, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia said that it is targeting to achieve 50% of EV sales, as soon as it can convenience more of its customers to adopt its EV models. Currently, the luxury marque’s EV line contains seven model types and nine variants, making it the brand with the largest range of EVs in Malaysia.
All Mercedes-Benz EQ electric models sold in Malaysia are fully imported (CBU) from other markets, with the EQS 500 4MATIC being the only exception. Mercedes-Benz Malaysia will continue observing the market to determine if it will locally produce (CKD) other models from the EQ electric series.
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