Hertz and BP announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for the development of a national network of EV charging stations powered by BP Pulse, BP’s global electrification and charging solution brand. 

The agreement involves the management of Hertz’s charging infrastructure by bp pulse and the customization 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, according to the company.

Hertz has a national footprint of locations across North America for BP Pulse to 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.

Stephen Scherr, Hertz CEO said: “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.” 

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 goal is for one-quarter of its fleet to be electric by the end of 2024, with continued growth through acquisitions from various EV manufacturers, the announcement said. This partnership will enable Hertz to further expand its national charging footprint.

BP acquired fleet charging and energy management company Amply Power in 2021 as part of its commitment to grow mobility and fleet products and services in North America. Amply Power, now rebranded as BP Pulse, began installing charging infrastructure at 25 Hertz rental locations in multiple states in 2022.

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, with about 90% of those rapid or ultra-fast chargers. The company also is partnering with fleet operators to accelerate the electric transformation of their fleets, according to the announcement.