ChargeNow is a new service from BMW i, which enables customers to access the largest network of electric vehicle fast charging stations, all with a single charge card.
The ChargeNow network is operated by Charge Net NZ, who are targeting a network of over 100 DC fast charging stations by the end of 2017. Not only does Charge Net offer broad coverage across the country, the stations are powered by 100 per cent zero-carbon-certified electricity from Ecotricity.
BMW announced a partnership with Charge Net NZ in late 2016, to further develop a nationwide charging network. This landmark partnership will enable Kiwis to drive their electric vehicles (EVs) right across New Zealand through the installation of a fast charging highway stretching from Kaitaia to Invercargill.
New Zealand is one of the most electric vehicle-ready countries in the world, with just over 80 per cent of the country’s electricity generated from renewable sources. That positions New Zealand second in the world in terms of renewable electricity generation.
With ChargeNow, electric vehicle drivers will be able to fast-charge their cars at stations around the country using the BMW-Charge Net NZ-branded ChargeNow card, which operates as a debit card. Charging at a DC charging station takes around 30 minutes to reach 80 per cent capacity. A real-world scenario of charging from approximately 30 to 80 per cent can be achieved in around 15 minutes.
