BP partners with Simon Property to install 900+ EV chargers at malls

BP Unit Partners with Simon Property Group to Install Over 900 EV Chargers Across U.S.

In a significant move towards expanding electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure in the United States, a unit of BP has secured a deal with mall owner Simon Property Group to install and operate more than 900 high-speed EV chargers. This collaboration, set to roll out at 75 sites nationwide, was announced by the companies on Wednesday. The initial locations equipped with BP Pulse chargers are expected to be operational and open to the public by early 2026, catering to nearly all EV manufacturers.

Strategic Expansion Amid Changing EV Market

This partnership marks one of BP's most extensive ventures into EV charging, a sector seeing fluctuating demand due to economic factors. Despite a current dip in consumer interest attributed to high interest rates and inflationary pressures, BP Pulse Americas' CEO Sujay Sharma remains optimistic about the long-term potential of the U.S. EV market. He emphasized the company's commitment to future growth, although he withheld specific financial details of the agreement.

Sharma stated, "We continue to believe that the U.S. will be a substantial EV market," and disclosed that BP is actively pursuing similar deals to further enhance its EV infrastructure. Currently, BP Pulse operates over 39,000 EV charging points globally and aims to reach 100,000 by 2030.

Investing in EV Future

BP has been strategically expanding its footprint in the EV sector through various partnerships and acquisitions. Recent collaborations include deals with car rental service Hertz and the acquisition of TravelCenters of America last year. This move aims to broaden BP's retail and charging network, essential for supporting the anticipated growth in EV adoption.

Sharma acknowledged a potential short-term slowdown in demand but remained confident about the long-term outlook for EVs. "I think in the short term there may be some demand slowdown," Sharma noted. "(But) we think the consumers are out there. We think the growth is out there long-term. We take that long-term outlook and we invest for that."

Commitments and Workforce Adjustments

Last year, BP Pulse announced its plans to invest $1 billion in the U.S. EV infrastructure by the end of this decade. Despite this ambitious investment, the company has also made some workforce adjustments, cutting over 100 jobs, which represents more than 10% of its global EV workforce. Additionally, BP has withdrawn its electric vehicle charging business from several markets, reflecting a strategic re-evaluation as they navigate the evolving landscape.