Mercedes-Benz and BMW partners to establish high-power charging network in China

BMW Brilliance Automotive Ltd. and Mercedes-Benz Group China Ltd. jointly announced an agreement to establish a 50:50 joint venture in China, On November 30th, Thursday. The primary objective of this collaboration is to operate an advanced high-power charging network and provide Chinese customers with premium charging services.

Leveraging their extensive experience in global and Chinese charging operations, as well as a profound understanding of the evolving Chinese new energy vehicle (NEV) market, both BMW and Mercedes-Benz aim to deliver fast, convenient, reliable, and personalized charging solutions to enhance the overall public charging experience for Chinese consumers.

The joint venture has set an ambitious target of establishing a network comprising a minimum of 1,000 high-power charging stations, equipped with approximately 7,000 high-power charging piles, by the end of 2026.

The initiative will incorporate cutting-edge charging technologies, with the first stations anticipated to commence operations in 2024 in key NEV regions. Subsequent installations will be strategically deployed nationwide.

The envisaged premium charging network will be accessible to the general public, ensuring widespread availability. Notably, customers affiliated with BMW Group and Mercedes-Benz Group will enjoy exclusive features, including plug & charge functionality and online reservation options, ensuring a seamless and digitally enhanced charging experience.

With a commitment to environmental sustainability, the joint venture aims to source electricity from renewable sources wherever feasible. This eco-friendly approach aligns with the objective of creating a sustainable and environmentally conscious charging experience for users.

The collaboration represents a significant step forward in the evolution of high-power charging infrastructure in China, marking a pivotal moment in the advancement of electric mobility in the region.