BP opens its first ultra-fast-charging hub for HGVs in 'milestone' for electrification

BP has opened its first ultra-fast-charging facilities aimed at medium and heavy-duty electric trucks.

Operated by BP's Aral brand, the retail site at Schwegenheim in Rheinland-Pfalz, Germany now has two state-of-the-art 300kw ultra-fast chargers intended for electric trucks, powered by 100% renewable energy.

The news comes following confirmation at last month's Road Transport Expo that BP is planning to open a network of multi-energy hubs in the UK offering biogas, HVO and charging facilities for electric trucks, starting next year.

A large-scale green hydrogen plant on Teeside should also start production in 2025.

Situated on the major B9 road, the Schwegenheim site provides truck drivers with a convenient, safe, well-lit station where an electric truck capable of charging at 300kw could increase its remaining range by around 150-200km during a driver’s mandatory 45-minute break. Drivers will also have access to welfare facilities.

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Emma Delaney, executive vice president, customers & products at BP said: “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.

“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."

Added Kurt-Christoph von Knobelsdorff, chief executive & spokesman NOW GmbH, National Organization Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technology: "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."

In 2021 aroud 1,000 battery electric trucks were sold in Germany. In Europe that number is expected to reach over 150,000 units by 2030 with the highest penetration in Germany, at 43%.