BMW Group NZ, ChargeNet introduce easy charging

‍ BMW drivers can just plug in thanks to new ChargeNet technology. Photos: BMW NZ

Kiwi BMW and Mini owners can now charge their electric vehicles with ease thanks to ChargeNet's new technology, New Zealand’s leading EV charging network.

The charging technology known as Plug & Charge enables the vehicle to begin charging automatically without manual authentication. This is thanks to a digital handshake that occurs between the car’s onboard systems, your ChargeNet account, and the compatible ChargeNet public charger.

BMW Group New Zealand Managing Director Francois Roca said Plug & Charge was a leap forward for technology and customer convenience. 

Called Plug & Charge, the technology helps Mini EV owners.

“Being the first in New Zealand to have access to this technology is a big win for BMW and Mini customers in simplifying the charging experience and making use of the seamless – and user-friendly – technology embedded in both our brands and ChargeNet’s,” said Roca. 

“We are delighted to see this available to our existing BMW and Mini customers and also look forward to offering it on our next generation electric vehicles, such as the BMW iX3 of the Neue Klasse, when it arrives in the middle of this year.” 

Plug & Charge also supports multiple charging accounts, enabling users to manage or split their payments across work, home or with different family members. The specific account can then be selected in the car’s dashboard menu before plugging in at the charge point.