National, July 28, 2023 – Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), a pioneer in providing innovative mobility solutions in the energy sector, has forged a strategic partnership with Ather Energy, India’s leading electric scooter brand, to further strengthen and expand India’s largest EV charging network. Through this collaboration, Ather Energy gains access to BPCL’s extensive network of over 21,000 fuel stations across the country, enabling the installation of Ather’s fast-charging Grid.
Ather Energy, with its vision to build a robust and widespread charging infrastructure, already boasts India’s largest EV charging network, featuring more than 1,400 chargers in 100 cities. By teaming up with BPCL, Ather Energy aims to accelerate the expansion of the Ather Grid, catering to the growing customer base of Ather electric scooters nationwide. Users can conveniently locate these fast chargers through the Ather App, which offers real-time information on charger availability, facilitating seamless planning of charging sessions.
This collaboration strengthens Ather Energy’s coverage in metropolitan areas and facilitates the deployment of charging infrastructure along intercity routes with high usage. In its initial phase, Ather Energy has successfully installed four fast chargers at various locations in Delhi NCR. The company plans to scale up to over 100 fast chargers at BPCL locations across India by the end of the year.
BPCL remains at the forefront of accelerating the spread of clean energy in the country. With the aim of creating a network of 7000 Energy Stations across India, EV charging takes center stage in our endeavors. India’s personal mobility is primarily driven by two-wheelers, and electric two-wheelers have been early adopters of electric mobility. Our alliance with Ather Energy, a leader in the electric two-wheeler industry with a penchant for innovation, is a strategic step towards ushering in an era of best-in-class EV charging solutions for our customers in our Energy Stations and an exciting future of innovative solutions in the EV sector.
Ravneet Phokela, Chief Business Officer, Ather Energy, said, “A robust and extensive charging infrastructure is critical to accelerate electric vehicle adoption in the country. This is why Ather Energy has invested in the creation of India’s largest electric vehicle charging network. Our partnership with Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) builds the momentum even further to create a widespread, nationwide charging network. This collaboration will enable us to leverage BPCL’s extensive fuel station network, bringing our fast-charging Grid closer to our customers across the country. As EV adoption continues to grow, strategic alliances like these are crucial to ensure widespread accessibility to charging infrastructure.”
Commenting on this partnership, Rajiv Dutta, Head Retail North, BPCL, said, “BPCL are constantly striving to align ourselves with the nations vision to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2040. We are steadily moving closer to our goal to converting 7000 of our conventional Retail Outlets into Energy Stations which is a part of a comprehensive decarbonization strategy to support and prioritize sustainable initiatives. Electric 2 wheelers are leading EV adoption, a charging infrastructure at Retail Outlets would bring confidence and convenience to early EV adopters. ”
This milestone collaboration between Ather Energy and BPCL marks a significant advancement in the growth of EV charging infrastructure in India. With a strong focus on expanding coverage, starting in Delhi NCR and extending throughout the nation, Ather Energy remains committed to providing convenient and accessible charging solutions for its valued customers.
BPCL continues to pursue its vision of electrifying petrol bunks, playing a pivotal role in the transition to cleaner energy solutions, and contributing to a sustainable and eco-friendly future for India.