Volkswagen and Bp have launched a strategic partnership with the aim of boosting the adoption of EVs across Europe, while unveiling the first charger in Dusseldorf, Germany.
The partnership will work together to build a fast-charging network across Europe by 2024 featuring Volkswagen’s Flexpole 150kW charging units, each of which have two charge points. The chargers also have an integrated battery storage system, overcoming one of the biggest obstacles to the rapid roll-out of fast charging infrastructure in Europe today – the need for high-powered grid connections.
The Flexpole units can be directly connected to a low voltage grid which removes the requirement for a dedicated substation and costly construction work. The collaboration said this significantly reduces installation times, while still providing fast charging speeds of up to 150kW2, enough to deliver up to 160km of driving in as little as 10 minutes, depending on the model of EV.
The first phase of the roll-out will see up to an additional 4,000 charge points at Bp’s Aral retail sites in Germany and the UK over the next 24 months. By end 2024, up to 8,000 charge points could be available across Germany, the UK and other European countries.
Herbert Diess, Volkswagen’s chief executive officer, said: “Investing in everything from software, to batteries and charging is part of our strategy to make individual mobility safer, more convenient and fully climate-neutral. The decarbonisation of Europe’s economy requires close collaboration across borders and sectors. We’re pleased to team up with Bp to accelerate the rollout of the fast-charging network across Europe.”
Charger locations will be integrated into the navigation and other in-car apps of Volkswagen, Seat and ŠKODA vehicles as well as into Volkswagen’s charging application, Elli. This feature is designed to make it easier for drivers to find available charging points. Any EV driver will be able to use the new chargers as part of the Bp pulse and Aral pulse network, enabling all EV drivers to sign up and collect rewards from Bp/Aral loyalty programs.
Bernard Looney, Bp’s chief executive officer, added: “EV charging is one of the key engines driving Bp’s transformation to an integrated energy company. That’s why we’re so excited by our partnership with Volkswagen.
“When you bring together one of the world’s leading car makers and one of the world’s leading energy companies – the opportunity is huge. This is a significant step-forward on our journey to accelerate the electrification of transport in Europe.”
