BMW and Mini have launched a new charging service in the UK, bringing access to one of the world’s largest public charging networks.

The new service means customers charge at more than 11,000 charging points from different operators across the UK, as well as 173,000 charge points across Europe

Accessed via a single RFID card or app, the new service means customers can charge at more than 11,000 charging points from different operators across the UK, as well as 173,000 charge points across Europe.

The network covers charge points from a range of operators, including BP Pulse, ESB, Osprey, Source London and Chargepoint Network UK (including Instavolt). It also includes the Ionity ultra-rapid network.

In total, the network covers 8,500 AC and 1,500 DC charging points across the UK, plus a further 162,000 AC and 11,000 DC charging points across Europe; all of which can be located the BMW/Mini apps and websites.

Drivers can either choose a pay-as-you-go package – providing access only – or add on one of  two additional monthly subscription packages, providing preferential rates for BP Pulse and Ionity.

The BP Pulse package costs £7.85 per month and cuts pricing per/kWh when charging at over 5,500 bp pulse charging points. Customers using up to 22kW AC pay £0.12 per kWh, up to 43kW AC or 50kW DC is £0.15 per kWh, and up to 150kW DC costs £0.27 per kWh.

The Ionity Plus package is priced at £11.30 per month and enables a preferential rate of £0.26 per kWh, saving drivers £0.43 per kWh compared to the pay-as-you-go rate when using up to 350kW DC charging.

Drivers who buy a fully electric or plug-in hybrid BMW/Mini via a BMW or Mini Centre are given the BP Pulse package subscription-free for 12 months.

Meanwhile, BMW customers who purchase a new BMW iX3 or BMW iX vehicle via a BMW Centre are also eligible for the ‘Ionity Plus’ package for 12 months, without subscription fee.

All the charging history and fees is detailed via the app or at the new BMW or Mini Charging website, with charging and any subscription costs invoiced monthly.