Daimler, BMW, bp join to invest in EV charging venture

The BMW Group, Daimler Mobility and bp will each acquire a 33.3% stake in Digital Charging Solutions (DCS), a European developer of digital charging solutions for auto manufacturers and fleet operators.

DCS works with OEMs to integrate its charging solutions into vehicle operating systems. The company currently operates charging services for BMW and Daimler, including Mercedes me Charge, BMW Charging and MINI Charging, and offers access to 228,000 charging points in 32 countries.

As part of the agreement, bp’s European charging networks will be integrated into the DCS network. bp currently has around 8,700 public charging points in Europe, and aims to expand its network to over 70,000 worldwide by 2030. The company plans to have 250 ultra-fast chargers operating at bp retail sites in the UK and 500 in Germany by year-end.

“Our aim is to make charging as convenient as refueling at the pump—fast, reliable and a great customer experience,” said bp Senior VP Richard Bartlett. “Joining forces with BMW and Daimler in DCS, combined with the expansion of our ultra-fast charging network, will help provide drivers access to convenient charging where they need it. It also gives us access to a much wider customer base and will ultimately drive up utilisation rates on our network.”

“With bp, the BMW Group and Daimler Mobility AG have on board a partner who offers a strong brand and customer focus with an extensive European ultra-fast charging network, as well as retail sites. We strongly support an open and full-coverage charging network, as this is a clear benefit for our customers,” said Rainer Feurer, Senior VP at the BMW Group.

Source: Daimler via Green Car Congress

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