Mercedes introduces new Alpitronic fast chargers and bidirectional charging
Around 80 Mercedes-Benz Charging Network charging parks are already in operation worldwide, often using charging hardware from Alpitronic, but based on the HYC300/400. However, this year the South Tyrolean fast-charging specialist unveiled its new HYC1000 charging system, which will be used at the first Ionity locations in 2026. And, as has now been confirmed, it will also be used in the Mercedes-Benz Charging Network from 2026.
While the power modules in the HYC400 hypercharger (and its predecessor, the HYC300) are permanently installed in the column, Alpitronic’s new HYC1000 is based on a modular, decentralised concept with a power unit that supplies several dispensers. The central power unit can deliver up to 800 amps and 1,000 kW, distributing this to several charging points using intelligent load management. A maximum of 600 kW is possible per charging point, but the total of 1,000 kW from the power unit cannot be exceeded at all connected charging points.
The system is designed to allow charging parks to be configured individually, “both in terms of total power through multiple power units and the number of charging points,” according to Mercedes. “The result: greater efficiency, optimal utilization, and maximum scalability.”
Mercedes and Alpitronic develop new fast chargers
Mercedes-Benz and Alpitronic recently made headlines with the record-breaking drive of the Concept AMG GT XX study. These records were made possible not only by the vehicle’s characteristics, but also by the special prototype charging system provided by Alpitronic in collaboration with Mercedes engineers – you can read more about the special charging station here. The two partners have now confirmed that, based on these findings, they will jointly develop a “special high-performance fast charger.” The declared goal is to achieve charging speeds that make charging just as fast as refuelling and thus significantly exceed today’s series production level.
“With the integration of the HYC1000 and the development of an extremely powerful fast charger, we’re setting new standards for public charging,” said Franz Reiner, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Mobility AG. “Together with Alpitronic, we’re creating a charging experience that is not only extremely fast but also seamlessly integrated into our premium ecosystem. This makes electric mobility even more attractive to our customers.”
“We repeatedly see that high charging speeds are essential for customers to fully benefit from the capabilities of modern electric vehicles,” adds Philipp Senoner, CEO of Alpitronic. “That’s why we’re excited to enable ultra-fast and reliable charging in the Mercedes-Benz charging network – making electric mobility truly effortless in everyday life.”
Mercedes also announced some news in the area of home charging at the IAA. From 2026, bidirectional charging will be possible, starting with the new electric GLC. When the car was unveiled, it was already said that it was prepared for bidirectional charging. Other models, such as the electric CLA, are to follow gradually. The market launch will start in Germany, France and the United Kingdom. Here too, further markets are to be opened up successively. To this end, Mercedes is working with The Mobility House, which will supply a DC wallbox, as can be seen in the pictures.
Two services are offered: MB.CHARGE Home Intelligent enables automated, grid-friendly and cost-optimised charging of electric vehicles. The system knows the planned departure times and the desired charge level of the vehicle and waits to start charging until periods when electricity tariffs are particularly favourable – usually overnight when demand is low or when there is a lot of electricity available from renewable sources and prices are correspondingly low. “This flexibility is additionally rewarded via the Mercedes-Benz energy tariff,” says Mercedes. And MB.CHARGE Home Pro Intelligent expands this offering with bidirectional functions: in times of high electricity prices and low availability of renewable energies, energy from the vehicle battery can be fed back into the power grid for remuneration. This turns the vehicle into an active energy source, reduces household energy costs and helps to relieve the strain on the power grid at the same time.
The system is controlled via a smartphone app, which customers can use to set the key parameters. The system then uses this information to control all important processes in the background, such as when to charge and when to discharge. “In addition, there are plans to enable the vehicle to be used in conjunction with a compatible bidirectional wallbox as an energy source for the home in an existing back-up power system,” writes Mercedes.
Together with The Mobility House, the manufacturer aims to give customers the opportunity to actively reduce energy costs, and also to relieve the strain on the power grid. However, the Stuttgart-based company also points out that regulatory frameworks are still needed in some countries, especially if electricity from electric cars is to be fed into the grid. “Mercedes-Benz is working with partners from the energy industry to ensure that these conditions are created,” says the car manufacturer.
mercedes-benz.com (Alpitronic), mercedes-benz.com (bidirektional charging station), mercedes-benz.com (Megawatt charging)
This article was first published by Sebastian Schaal for electrive’s German edition.
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