Munich. BMW is streamlining the public charging process for its electric vehicles, aiming to enhance user convenience significantly.
As of March 16th, drivers in Germany can charge their all-electric BMW or MINI at public DC charging points using the Plug & Charge feature. This innovation eliminates the need for a prior charging contract.
The system operates using the credit card linked to the driver’s BMW or MINI account. Once logged in with their customer ID in the vehicle, the car automatically authenticates itself at the charging station when plugged in, initiating the charging process without any additional steps.
This new functionality means that users no longer require a separate app, charging card, or manual intervention at the station.
Setting up this feature is straightforward and can be done through the Plug & Charge menu in the my BMW or MINI app.
Billing is transparent, based on the current ad hoc charging price from the provider. This price is visible both in the vehicle and in the app for supported charging stations.
Payments are processed directly via the stored credit card, ensuring that drivers maintain complete control over their costs and transparency throughout the charging experience.
This service is compatible with all Plug & Charge-capable BMW and MINI models, now accessible to customers without an existing charging contract—this includes tourists and fleet drivers who may only be using their vehicle temporarily with a BMW or MINI account.
The launch partners with Mer Germany encompass over 1,400 charging points across Germany and Austria, facilitated by Hubject’s Plug & Charge ecosystem. Further expansion to additional charging point operators and markets is expected throughout 2026.
Through this initiative, BMW reinforces its commitment to making electric mobility not just sustainable but also practical for everyday use.
© BMW Group
