The partnership marks the first time Tesla's hardware will be integrated into an independent EV charging network.
bp Pulse, bp's EV charging business, announced a $100 million deal to acquire ultra-fast charging hardware units from Tesla, to supercharge the expansion of the bp Pulse public charging network across the U.S. while enabling the deployment of Tesla chargers at private depots for EV fleet customers.
This landmark partnership marks the first time Tesla's hardware will be integrated into an independent EV charging network. The rollout is scheduled to begin in 2024, covering key sites within the bp family of brands, including TravelCenters of America, Thorntons, ampm and Amoco. Additionally, Tesla's chargers will be deployed at select bp Pulse fleet customer depots.
The Tesla ultra-fast chargers, with 250 kW output, will be operated by bp Pulse and feature Tesla's "Magic Dock," compatible with both North American Charging Standard (NACS) and Combined Charging System (CCS) connectors. This cross-compatibility opens up Tesla's chargers to EVs from various manufacturers, enhancing accessibility and convenience for all EV drivers. Furthermore, these chargers will support the Plug and Charge protocol, streamlining and automating payment processes.
"Strengthening the bp Pulse network with Tesla's industry-leading hardware is a major step forward in our ambitions for high-speed, open access charging infrastructure in the U.S. and advances our ambition to delivering an exceptional customer experience," said Richard Bartlett, global CEO of bp Pulse.
"This is another example of how bp Pulse is collaborating with leaders across the industry to advance EV infrastructure growth across the US and to deliver the fast and reliable charging experience we know our customers demand," said Sujay Sharma, CEO of bp Pulse Americas.
bp Pulse also has plans to continue deploying additional fast and reliable charging points at high-demand locations such as airports, major metropolitan areas and properties along Alternative Fueling Corridors. The company has secured grant funds through programs like the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) and California Energy Commission (CEC) to expand charging infrastructure in California, Pennsylvania, Colorado and Kentucky.
bp's plans to invest $1 billion in America's EV charging infrastructure by 2030, with a focus on allocating $500 million in the next two to three years. As the EV industry continues to grow, bp Pulse aims to play a pivotal role in supporting the transition to sustainable energy.
Abby Andrews