BP and DiDi join forces to build electric vehicle charging network in China
The energy company BP and ride hailing app Didi Chuxing (DiDi) have a set up a joint venture to develop a network of electric vehicle charging hubs across China which will available to both DiDi’s drivers and the public.
In a statement issued today (1 August), BP said that the plan is to ‘expand the venture into loyalty and convenience offerings and other fleet services in the near future’.
BP and DiDi have already opened a pilot site in Guangzhou in the Guangdong province, with ten fast-charging units, ranging from 60-120kW. This site will migrate into the joint venture once live. The venture aims to expand rapidly, with an ambition to quickly become the leading EV charging provider in China.
China is the world’s largest and fastest-developing EV market with around 50% of the world’s BEVs today. Consequently, China plays a key role in BP’s global EV strategy – but the company is also building up its presence in other markets.
BP added: ‘Following the acquisition in 2018 of BP Chargemaster, the UK’s leading electric vehicle charging company, BP is now beginning roll out of ultra-fast chargers at sites in the UK. BP has also invested in innovative fast-charging battery technology firm StoreDot.
‘In China, this work already includes an investment in NIO Capital’s investment fund focused on China’s new energy vehicle ecosystem and also an equity investment in PowerShare, which offers an online platform connecting EV drivers, charge point operators and power suppliers.’
