BMW has joined the roster of automakers to formalize an agreement with Tesla, allowing them the utilization of Tesla’s expansive charging station network in North America. This deal also extends to the adoption of Tesla’s proprietary NACS (North American Charging Standard) connector.
The pact encompasses not just BMW but also its Mini and Rolls-Royce subsidiaries.
Starting in early 2025, electric vehicle (EV) owners across these three brands will have the ability to recharge at specific Tesla charging stations. Initially, an adaptor will be needed for compatibility; however, BMW is set to integrate the NACS connector into its vehicles commencing in 2025, targeting the U.S. and Canadian markets.
To augment the charging experience, BMW is in the process of developing an interface that will permit owners of BMW, Mini, and Rolls-Royce EVs to locate available Tesla charging stations directly through their vehicle’s display. Payments for charging services can be made seamlessly via the respective brands’ dedicated applications.
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Tesla’s NACS Connector, Previously Known as Supercharger Connector
This collaboration will significantly augment the availability of DC fast-charging stations for BMW, Mini, and Rolls-Royce EV users. Tesla’s network currently boasts around 12,000 DC fast chargers in North America, accounting for nearly 60% of all DC fast chargers in the United States, as reported by the Department of Energy. Tesla began offering access to its charging infrastructure to competing automakers following an agreement with the White House earlier this year.
Several other manufacturers, including Fisker, Ford, Honda, Acura, Hyundai, Genesis, Jaguar, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Polestar, Rivian, and Volvo have similarly entered into agreements with Tesla for charging station access. Many of these companies have also declared their intention to adopt the NACS connector for their North American vehicle fleet. Stellantis and Volkswagen have also expressed potential interest in this regard.
In a parallel initiative, BMW has joined forces with six additional automakers to establish an independent charging network across North America. This network aims to feature a minimum of 30,000 charging stations and is slated for initial rollout in the United States by mid-2024. This network will offer compatibility with both the CCS and NACS charging standards.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about BMW-Tesla Charging Agreement
What is the main focus of the agreement between BMW and Tesla?
The primary focus of the agreement is to allow BMW, along with its Mini and Rolls-Royce brands, to utilize Tesla’s extensive charging network in North America. BMW will also adopt Tesla’s proprietary NACS (North American Charging Standard) connector.
When will BMW, Mini, and Rolls-Royce EV owners be able to use Tesla’s charging stations?
Owners of electric vehicles from these three brands will be able to start using designated Tesla charging stations in early 2025.
Will any special equipment be needed for BMW vehicles to use Tesla’s charging stations?
Initially, an adaptor will be required for the vehicles to be compatible with Tesla’s charging stations. However, starting in 2025, BMW plans to integrate the NACS connector into their new vehicles in the U.S. and Canada.
Is BMW developing any user interface to improve the charging experience?
Yes, BMW is in the process of creating a user experience that will allow owners to locate available Tesla charging stations through their vehicle’s display. Payments can also be made through the respective brands’ dedicated apps.
How significant is Tesla’s charging network in North America?
Tesla’s network consists of approximately 12,000 DC fast chargers in North America and makes up about 60% of all DC fast chargers in the United States, according to the Department of Energy.
Have other automakers also made agreements with Tesla?
Yes, other automakers including Fisker, Ford, Honda, Acura, Hyundai, Genesis, Jaguar, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Polestar, Rivian, and Volvo have made similar agreements with Tesla.
Is BMW working on any other charging initiatives?
BMW is collaborating with six other automakers to establish a separate charging network across North America. This new network is expected to have at least 30,000 chargers and will offer compatibility with both CCS and NACS charging standards. The first of these stations will open in the U.S. in mid-2024.
More about BMW-Tesla Charging Agreement
- BMW Official Press Release
- Tesla Charging Infrastructure
- Department of Energy Statistics on EV Charging
- Previous White House Agreement with Tesla
- Overview of NACS Connector Standard
- Collaborative North American Charging Network Initiative