Mercedes-Benz and BMW have made a significant stride in the electric vehicle (EV) market by launching the first public EV charging station in China through their joint venture, Ionchi. This milestone marks the commencement of a nationwide rollout of the charging network, with the first station now open to the public in Beijing after successful operational trials.
The Ionchi partnership between BMW and Mercedes-Benz was established last year with the objective of providing premium ultra-fast recharging services for their customers in various cities across China. Following the launch in Beijing, similar charging stations are set to open in other parts of the city, as well as in Qingdao and Nanjing in the coming weeks.
By the end of 2026, the goal is to have at least 1,000 Ionchi premium fast-charging stations in operation across 100 cities in China, each equipped with seven charging points. This extensive network aims to cater to the growing demand for EV charging infrastructure in the country.
BMW, in collaboration with eight automotive partners, is also implementing similar premium EV charging networks in key regional markets, such as Ionna in the US and Ionity in Europe. The Ionity joint venture in Europe has already established itself as one of the leading charging networks in the region, with nearly 4,000 fast-charging points installed in over 600 stations by the end of last year. These stations are strategically located along major highways and motorways to ensure convenient access for EV drivers.
The move towards expanding the Ionchi charging network in China reflects the commitment of BMW and Mercedes-Benz to promote electric mobility and provide efficient charging solutions for EV owners. With the rapid growth of the EV market globally, the development of robust charging infrastructure is essential to support the widespread adoption of electric vehicles and facilitate long-distance travel. The Ionchi partnership is poised to play a key role in advancing the EV ecosystem in China and enhancing the overall EV ownership experience for customers.
