BMW i Ventures, the venture capital arm of the automotive giant BMW, has recently made a significant investment in HeyCharge, a startup specializing in internet-free charging infrastructure for electric vehicles (EVs). This move by BMW aims to enhance the charging station network and represents a new green initiative in the automotive industry as of early 2022.
While Cadillac grabbed the spotlight at CES by unveiling an autonomous electric concept car, BMW decided to focus on a different aspect of EV technology. The German automaker introduced E Ink, a groundbreaking technology that alters the color of a vehicle to optimize thermal energy absorption. However, BMW’s main priority lies in accelerating its digital and environmental transition, and to achieve this, it is relying heavily on BMW i Ventures, its investment subsidiary.
BMW acknowledges the exponential growth the EV market is experiencing, which will inevitably require the development of more charging infrastructure solutions around the world over the next few years. To cater to this increasing demand, BMW i Ventures has invested in HeyCharge, a startup established in 2020. The unique feature of HeyCharge’s offering is the ability to expand the electric charging station network without relying on an internet connection or RFID card.
HeyCharge has developed a technology called SecureCharge, which enables vehicles to be charged directly through Bluetooth using a dedicated application. This innovation proves to be particularly valuable in areas where there is limited or no internet access, as well as in places lacking specialized hardware. By partnering with HeyCharge, BMW further emphasizes its commitment to sustainable mobility.
BMW has ambitious plans for electric mobility, intending to introduce twelve electric vehicles to the market by 2023 and reach a remarkable milestone of seven million electric vehicles by 2030. With its investment in HeyCharge and similar initiatives, BMW aims to drive the growth and accessibility of charging infrastructure, making electric vehicle ownership more convenient and accessible for consumers worldwide.
Useful links:
BMW i Ventures
HeyCharge
