Mercedes-Benz HPC North America, a joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and MN8 Energy, announced it launched its first Mercedes-Benz Charging Hub in Sandy Springs, Ga.

The facility is part of the automaker's $1 billion investment plan with MN8 Energy to establish 2,500 chargers in 400 charging hubs across North America by the end of the decade.

The hub incorporates special features that include:

• 400-kilowatt chargers to offer ultra-fast charging speeds

• Open to all electric-vehicle makes and models

• A charging lounge for motorists to sit in as their vehicle charges, complete with furniture, vending machines, refreshments, and restrooms

• A canopy with overhead LED lighting for safety, and solar panels on top to generate passive clean electricity

• A 15-foot pylon visible from the road showing the charging stall's status: in use, free, or reserved

• Wheelchair-accessible charging hub and a hub designed for electric vans or EVs with trailers up to 26 feet long

• Use of renewable energy and is carbon neutral

“The Mercedes-Benz Charging Network expands global charging options for customers of all EV brands to promote clean, electric mobility,” said Franz Reiner, chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Mobility AG in the press release. "In North America, our strategy is clear: focusing on where EV drivers are and where they are going to enhance the North American EV charging map while setting new standards for quality and customer experience. These efforts will pave the way for greater EV adoption here in North America and around the world."

Mercedes-Benz HPC NA also plans to open hubs at Buc-ee's travel centers in Texas, Florida, Alabama, and Georgia by the end of 2023, with further expansion in 2024. The automaker will also install charging hubs at Simon Mall locations in the first half of 2024, Mercedes said.