In a significant development, BP subsidiary BP Pulse is set to acquire Tesla’s ultra-fast charging hardware units at a cost of $100 million. This investment will drive the expansion of BP Pulse’s public charging network across the United States and facilitate EV fleet customer support through private depot charger deployment. It marks the first time that Tesla’s ultra-fast chargers will be integrated into an independent EV charging network.
The rollout is slated to commence in 2024, with Tesla chargers installed at key locations under the BP family of brands, including TravelCenters of America, Thorntons, ampm, and Amoco. The chargers will also be deployed at BP Pulse’s large-scale Gigahub™ charging sites in major metropolitan areas and third-party locations, as part of previously established collaborations.
This collaboration extends to deploying Tesla chargers at select BP Pulse fleet customer depots, enabling comprehensive charge management with BP Pulse’s Omega software. Richard Bartlett, Global CEO of BP Pulse, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “Strengthening the BP Pulse network with Tesla’s industry-leading hardware is a significant step forward in our ambitions for high-speed, open-access charging infrastructure in the US, advancing our ambition to deliver an exceptional customer experience.”
The Tesla ultra-fast chargers boast an impressive 250 kW output and are equipped with Tesla’s ‘Magic Dock,’ compatible with North American Charging Standard (NACS) and Combined Charging System (CCS) connectors. This feature ensures that EVs from various manufacturers can use the Tesla chargers on the BP Pulse network, regardless of their connector type. The Tesla chargers also support the Plug and Charge protocol, simplifying and automating payments.
Rebecca Tinucci, Tesla’s Senior Director of Charging Infrastructure, welcomed the partnership, stating, “Selling our fast-charging hardware is a new step for us, and one we’re looking to expand in support of our mission to accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable energy.”
Sujay Sharma, CEO of BP Pulse Americas, highlighted the company’s commitment to expanding alliances with EV industry leaders and its dedication to delivering fast and reliable charging experiences for growing numbers of EV drivers.
This partnership represents a refreshing collaboration with an oil company, further underscoring the evolving landscape of energy infrastructure.
In addition to the Tesla partnership, BP Pulse plans to continue deploying fast and reliable charging points at high-demand locations like airports, major metropolitan areas, and BP-owned properties along Alternative Fueling Corridors. BP has secured grant funds to establish charging infrastructure at various sites in California, Pennsylvania, Colorado, and Kentucky.
This initiative aligns with BP’s commitment to invest $1 billion in America’s EV charging infrastructure by 2030, with a focus on investing $500 million in the next two to three years. BP’s diversified approach to energy transition reflects its dedication to sustainable energy solutions, marking a significant shift in its investment portfolio.