BMW and Mercedes to build charging network in China

Both Mercedes-Benz and BMW have announced that they will be collaborating to build a high-power charging network in China to offer their customers a premium charging service.

BMW Brilliance Automotive Ltd. and Mercedes-Benz Group China Ltd. will be entering into a 50:50 joint venture to operate the network. Both firms will apply their expertise gained from their global and Chinese charging operations (such as this one), as well as their understanding of the Chinese new energy vehicle market to deliver fast, convenient, reliable, and tailor-made charging solutions for the market.

The joint venture aims to establish a network of at least 1,000 high-power charging stations with around 7,000 high-power charging points by the end of 2026. The first stations are expected to open for business in 2024 in the top new energy vehicle regions, with further stations to be installed across China.

The premium charging network will be open to the broader public, although it is intended that customers of the BMW Group and Mercedes-Benz Group will be able to enjoy a series of exclusive features, such online reservation of charging points. The joint venture additionally intends to procure electricity generated from renewable sources where conditions allow to create a sustainable and eco-friendly charging experience.