• Rapid roll-out of EV fast chargers across Europe
• Flexible battery-based chargers can be installed rapidly, as they do not require high power grid connections
• First charging unit now live and open to the public in Dusseldorf, Germany, with up to 4,000 charge points planned within 24 months in Germany and the UK
• bp’s growing charging network will be integrated into Volkswagen, Skoda and Seat/Cupra in-car dashboards ensuring drivers can find their nearest charger seamlessly
• Partnership aims for up to 8,000 new charge points across Germany, UK and other European countries by end 2024.

Volkswagen and bp have today launched their strategic partnership that will boost the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) across Europe, unveiling the first charger in Dusseldorf, Germany. The partnership brings together two of the leading global players in e-mobility who aim to transform access to EV charging in key European markets by rapidly building a fast charging network across Europe by 2024 and delivering a seamless experience for EV drivers.

Volkswagen’s innovative Flexpole 150kW charging units, each of which feature two charge points, 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, significantly reducing installation times while still providing fast charging speeds of up to 150kW, enough to deliver up to 160km of driving in as little as 10 minutes, depending on the model of electric vehicle. 

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 bp retail sites in the UK over the next 24 months. By the end 2024, up to 8,000 charge points could be available across Germany, the UK and other European countries.