Hertz and bp Collaborate to Accelerate EV Charging in North America

Car hire giant Hertz and bp have announced plans to develop a US network of EV charging stations powered by bp pulse, bp’s global electrification and charging solution brand. bp pulse will build and manage a network of fast-charging hubs to serve Hertz customers, including taxi and ride sharing drivers, as well as the general public.

The agreement also involves the management of Hertz’s charging infrastructure by bp pulse and the customisation of its Omega software to ensure Hertz’s growing fleet of electric rental cars are recharged quickly and efficiently between rentals.

Omega supports fleet operations by automating charging when the power price is low, while providing real-time visibility to EVs, chargers, power usage, and more.  

Hertz has invested in thousands of charging stations across its locations, and this partnership will enable it to substantially expand its UScharging footprint.

Through large-scale purchases from Tesla, Polestar and GM, Hertz has assembled a fleet of tens of thousands of EVs, which are available at 500 Hertz locations across 38 states. Hertz’s objective is for one-quarter of its fleet to be electric by the end of 2024.

Stephen Scherr, Hertz CEO says: “Hertz is accelerating the adoption of electrification by investing in the largest rental fleet of electric vehicles in North America and expanding the availability of charging stations. We are excited to partner with bp pulse to create a national charging infrastructure for the Hertz EV fleet, thereby growing the number of charging options available to our customers and providing them with a premium electric experience and lower emission travel options.” 

Bernard Looney, bp chief executive, adds: “It’s brilliant to be joining forces with Hertz – quite simply, they are one of the biggest names on the road. Working together to deliver charging facilities and design solutions, we believe we can take the EV driving experience to the next level for US customers. And this is just the start for bp pulse in the United States.” 

bp pulse is expanding its global network of high-speed charging for cars, light commercial vehicles, and trucks, with a global target of more than 100,000 chargers by 2030.