Mercedes-Benz and BMW have officially launched their joint venture electric vehicle (EV) charging network in China. The venture, dubbed IONCHI, has already activated its first seven locations, with four stationed in Beijing and additional sites in Qingdao and Nanjing.

According to Mercedes-Benz Mobility AG, the new charging network features liquid-cooled fast-charging stations capable of delivering up to 600kW of power. These advanced chargers operate within a 200 to 1,000V range and can handle up to 800 amperes, promising to deliver an 80% charge in just 10 minutes.

Moreover, the charging stations are equipped with lightweight charging cables weighing only 3.15 kg (around 7 lbs), making them 30% lighter than traditional options. In addition, the charging stations feature covered parking areas and are strategically located near commercial hubs, offering a premium charging experience integrated with the Mercedes-Benz app.

While the network will offer exclusive features for Mercedes and BMW customers, including Plug&Charge capability and advance reservations, the charging stations will remain accessible to all EV brands. The joint venture also aims to establish a network of 1,000 charging locations with 7,000 charging points across 100 Chinese cities by the end of 2026.

Notably, this initiative is the third major charging collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and BMW, complementing their existing ventures: Ionity in Europe and Ionna in North America. Interestingly, the name “IONCHI” combines “ION,” representing electrically charged particles, with “CHI” for China, reflecting the network’s regional focus.

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As the launch follows regulatory approval from European competition authorities in January 2024, it aligns with Mercedes-Benz’s broader strategy to deploy over 10,000 fast-charging points worldwide by 2030. With this joint venture now launched, Mercedes-Benz and BMW are set to elevate their position in the EV charging landscape.

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