BP has established its first ultra-fast charging stations for medium and heavy-duty electric vehicles to aid in the decarbonisation of the industry, whose tailpipe CO2 emissions have climbed on average 2.2% per year since 2000, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA).
The retail outlet in Schwegenheim, Rheinland-Pfalz, Germany, operated by bp’s Aral brand, now boasts two state-of-the-art 300kw ultra-fast chargers meant for electric trucks, powered by 100% renewable energy. The Schwegenheim location, located on the important B9 route, offers truck drivers with a convenient, safe, and well-lit charging station where an electric truck capable of charging at 300kw may improve its remaining range by about 150-200km during a driver’s mandated 45-minute break.. The station also has food and beverage options as well as toilets.
“With the transition to electric vehicles well underway in Europe, we’re now seeing the move towards electric trucks. Truck manufacturers and truck fleet operators are demanding low carbon alternative fuels and electrification is an attractive option. Opening our first truck charging facilities at Schwegenheim is an important milestone for bp and the industry.” said, Emma Delaney, BP executive vice president, customers & products.
“Schwegenheim is a perfect example of what the industry needs – ultra-fast charging with safe charging bays for trucks, close to strategic road networks and a place where drivers can take a break and refresh with food and drinks.”
With the demand for battery electric trucks projected to rise, charging infrastructure is becoming increasingly important. In Europe, that number is predicted to exceed 150,000 units by 2030, with Germany having the greatest penetration at 43%.
Daimler Truck, one of the world’s major commercial vehicle manufacturers, will deploy its battery-electric Mercedes-Benz eActros for heavy urban distribution in 2021. The firm has collaborated closely with BP to provide insights into the needed layout, charging speeds, and convenience offerings in order to provide truck drivers with the accessibility they demand as well as a comfortable charging experience.
“I am pleased that bp and Aral pulse continue to support the electrification of German truck fleets. Zero tailpipe emission trucks will be crucial if we are to reach our decarbonisation goals and to expand the charging infrastructure across Germany. This project is another milestone for the electrification of mobility in Germany and Europe,” says Kurt-Christoph von Knobelsdorff, CEO and spokesman, NOW GmbH, National Organization Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technology.
