Starbucks today announced a strategic collaboration with Mercedes-Benz High-Power Charging to electrify more than 100 Starbucks stores across the country.
During the first phase of the program, high-power electric vehicle (EV) chargers will be installed at Starbucks stores along Interstate 5, a critical west coast travel corridor.
Chargers will be placed in core urban areas and charging deserts, and more locations will eventually be identified, including markets on the East Coast.
“At Starbucks, we have a long history of bringing renewable and clean energy projects to connect communities that lack the infrastructure,” said Michael Kobori, Starbucks chief sustainability officer. “Partnering with Mercedes is the next step in expanding our EV charging network so our customers can refuel sustainably while they enjoy Starbucks.”
Give more than we take
EV charging is one of Starbucks key strategies supporting our environmental promise to give more to the planet than we take. In the U.S. today, Starbucks customers can enjoy their favorite beverage while charging at more than 1,000 licensed and company-operated stores that have nearby access to nearby EV charging.
In partnership with Mercedes-Benz, Starbucks continues to expand its own EV charging network to 100 more stores with the goal of bringing renewable energy and clean technology to more communities.
Starbucks locations on the I-5 route will feature the Alpitronic Hypercharger 400, which are equipped with NACS cables and have the capability to support vehicles with a wide voltage range.
“The collaboration between two leading brands like Mercedes-Benz and Starbucks will uplift the charging experience for all EV drivers,” said Andrew Cornelia, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz High-Power Charging. “We envision a future where charging your vehicle is as easy as enjoying your favorite Starbucks.”
Indeed, one of the goals of the collaboration is to seamlessly integrate the charging experience with the familiar and easy routine of grabbing a coffee, and make it available to drivers of all EV brands.
“We’re trying as a company to be as sustainable as we can be,” said Sarah, a Starbucks barista in Washington state whose store features EV charging stations. “Why not do it in a way that people can realize they’re participating, that it’s all shared, so that they can come along for the journey?
“It’s a great way for us to be visible, because people can go and get a great cup of coffee and it makes it an easier decision to buy the electric car that’s going to be better for efficiency, so I think that’s very exciting.”
SOURCE: Starbucks
