In 2025, BMW Group EV drivers will be able to charge their cars on Tesla Superchargers.
In a groundbreaking move that promises to reshape the electric vehicle (EV) charging landscape, BMW of North America has announced a partnership with Tesla to expand charging options for BMW, MINI, and Rolls-Royce electric vehicle drivers. Slated to go live in early 2025, this agreement will grant access to designated Tesla Supercharger stations in the United States and Canada. This strategic move comes as part of BMW’s ongoing commitment to provide convenient and efficient charging solutions for its burgeoning fleet of electric vehicles.
Sebastian Mackensen, President & CEO of BMW of North America, emphasized the importance of this development, stating, “With six fully electric BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce models now available in the U.S. market, and more to come, it is our top priority to ensure that our drivers have easy access to reliable, fast charging.” For consumers, this collaboration represents a major step forward in alleviating ‘range anxiety,’ a significant concern in the adoption of electric vehicles. Tesla’s Supercharger network is renowned for its fast charging capabilities and extensive coverage, making it a choice partner for BMW in its electric venture.
The joint effort extends beyond mere access to charging stations. Both companies will collaborate in the coming months to integrate software solutions that enable a seamless customer experience. BMW, MINI, and Rolls-Royce drivers will be able to locate and access available Superchargers directly through their vehicle’s display. Additionally, payments for charging services can be processed through the vehicle brand’s respective app, ensuring an integrated, hassle-free experience for users.
In another forward-thinking move, BMW Group has also committed to adopting the North American Charging Standard (NACS) for its battery electric vehicles in the U.S. and Canada, also starting in 2025. This demonstrates BMW’s intent to standardize its charging infrastructure, making it more accessible for all EV users. This move is strategic, as it complements the company’s previous recent announcement to develop a new charging network in North America, in collaboration with six other manufacturers.
The new joint venture aims to establish at least 30,000 new chargers in metropolitan areas and along major highways. Notably, these chargers will be compatible with all battery electric vehicles that use either the CCS or NACS charging standards. This initiative is separate but complementary to the Tesla Supercharger partnership and showcases BMW’s holistic approach to solving the EV charging conundrum. BMW’s alliance with Tesla’s Supercharger network is not just a milestone for both companies but also a significant boost for the electric vehicle industry in North America. Through enhanced charging infrastructure and cross-brand compatibility, BMW is positioning itself as a formidable player in the fast-evolving electric vehicle landscape.
