BMW, Mercedes-Benz’s joint venture in China launches first IONCHI-branded supercharging stations

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On October 24, Beijing IONCHI New Energy Technology Co., Ltd., a 50:50 joint venture between BMW Brilliance Automotive Ltd. and Mercedes-Benz (China) Investment Ltd., officially launched its premium supercharging brand IONCHI, alongside the opening of its first batch of supercharging stations.

Photo credit:  IONCHI 

Starting from Beijing and expanding to key economic hubs across China, IONCHI aims to build a highly reliable, high-powered supercharging network, providing Chinese consumers with top-tier charging services in an open and shared manner.

At the brand launch and the opening ceremony of its first station, IONCHI CEO Tang Xuri explained the meaning behind the brand's name. "ION" refers to ions, which are energetic, dynamic, and stable, while "CHI" stands for China, representing IONCHI's deep-rooted commitment to serving the Chinese market.

Positioned as a provider of premium supercharging service, IONCHI is rolling out liquid-cooled supercharging technology, combining reliable charging with cutting-edge technology and high-end service. The superchargers operate on a wide voltage range of 200V to 1,000V, making them compatible with a variety of mainstream electric vehicles. Thanks to remote software updates, the chargers can continuously improve their compatibility and performance through regular firmware upgrades.

Photo credit:  IONCHI 

IONCHI's supercharging network is built on liquid-cooled, high-power technology, offering rated power up to 600kW and a maximum current of 800A, with intelligent power distribution for optimized charging efficiency. The superchargers are designed with a lightweight, user-friendly charging cable weighing just 3.15kg, and a plug height of 1,100mm, making them ergonomically suitable for most users.

Photo credit:  IONCHI 

In addition to providing fast and reliable charging, IONCHI's supercharging stations are strategically located in prime urban areas, including commercial complexes, central business districts, and major city thoroughfares. These stations, easily found through the IONCHI app or mini-programs, are seamlessly integrated into daily city life, ensuring that customers can charge while going about their work and leisure. The first stations to go live in Beijing are located at Dongba Wanda Plaza, SOLANA, the China World Trade Center, Chaoyang Joy City, and Yanqing Olympic Park. Stations in core locations in Qingdao and Nanjing have also opened simultaneously.

In Europe and North America, BMW and Mercedes-Benz have launched joint ventures with other leading automakers and renewable energy platforms, named IONITY and IONNA, respectively. These initiatives have become trusted premium charging services, with IONITY emerging as a leader in Europe and IONNA focusing on high-power charging in North America.

Building on their success in Europe and North America, BMW and Mercedes-Benz are bringing their expertise to China through the IONCHI joint venture. This collaboration is tailored to meet the unique needs of Chinese consumers, providing a premium supercharging experience that fits local travel habits and lifestyles.

While Europe's IONITY network offers charging speeds up to 350kW, IONCHI has been designed specifically for China, providing an even higher charging capacity of up to 600kW in line with China's national policies and market demands.

Besides, users of the My BMW App, MINI App, and Mercedes me can now access the IONCHI supercharging network, enjoying exclusive services such as plug-and-charge and online reservations for a seamless digital charging experience.