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BMW Announces DC Fast Charging Network Expansion

(Credit: BMW)

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BMW Announces DC Fast Charging Network Expansion

BMW i3 charging

BMW i3 charging (Credit: BMW)

BMW is serious about making electric car ownership more practical, and it’s taking some big actions to do that. The automaker is teaming up with EVgo to upgrade the network of DC fast chargers in strategic areas throughout the United States.

The two companies are working together to expand the current network of 100 EVgo DC fast chargers to over 600 by 2018. The additional 500-plus stations will be installed in 25 cities, giving all electric vehicle owners a way to quickly replenish their battery while on the go. This expansion is needed as the number of all-electric cars in many cities continues to rise.

About 50 of the new stations are supposed to be up and running by the end of 2015.

As part of the partnership with EVgo, BMW is giving anyone who buys an i3 free charging privileges. The purchase had to take place after November 1 of this year. More specifically, owners will be able to do 30-minute charging sessions for an unlimited number of times for a two-year period. In half an hour, the BMW i3’s battery can be replenished up to 80%. That should allow the car to drive about an additional 60 miles, depending on conditions. If i3 owners choose to charge the car any longer, they will be responsible for the resulting fees.

While the network won’t be nearly as extensive as the Tesla Superchargers, usage won’t be limited either. Some Tesla owners have been annoyed at receiving a curt email from Tesla explaining that Superchargers are only for occasional use when a person is traveling outside of the immediate area.

In addition, BMW and Volkswagen are busy installing 100 DC fast chargers along the East and West Coasts. Originally, the project was going to be complete by the end of December, but delays are pushing it to next spring.

As part of its ChargeNow program, BMW started off by giving customers in California a similar access program. This demonstrates that electric vehicle usage is expanding nationwide, but not everyone is cheering. Some longtime BMW i3 are upset that they’re being cut out of the deal.

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