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Mercedes Debuts ELF Rolling Lab to Push 900 kW Charging and Bidirectional EV Tech

Mercedes aims to use the van to validate near‑production charging hardware for future models.

Overview

  • An experimental V‑Class–based van combines enhanced CCS with Megawatt Charging System hardware to probe ultra‑high‑power charging.
  • Mercedes reports CCS tests up to about 900 kW, claiming the setup can add 100 kWh in 10 minutes, with recent partner trials sustaining roughly 850 kW.
  • MCS serves as a research tool to stress batteries, power electronics and cables under extreme loads rather than as an immediate passenger‑car standard.
  • Full‑spectrum bidirectional capability covers V2L, V2H and V2G using both AC and DC, with initial services slated for 2026 in Germany, France and the UK.
  • ELF also trials cable‑free options — inductive and automated conductive floor‑plate charging — currently around 11 kW AC for each approach, as Germany begins deploying public MCS sites such as a new A2 station.