Hedhvick Hirav
Hedhvick Hirav is a dedicated EV researcher and editor with over 4 years of experience in India’s growing electric vehicle ecosystem. Their contributions have been recognized in leading sustainability publications and automotive journals.
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Introduction: The Charging India Upcoming EV Era
India is changing due to the EV revolution. But for this transformation to succeed, charging infrastructure must be convenient, dependable, and widely available.
Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), one of India’s oldest and largest energy providers, has entered the EV space by launching eDrive BPCL Electric Vehicle Charging Stations across the country.
These charging hubs are strategically located on highways, inter-city routes, and within urban centers – making them highly relevant for daily users as well as long-distance travelers.
Whether you are already driving an EV or planning to buy one, this guide explains how eDrive BPCL charging stations work, their features, costs, and usage tips.
What is eDrive BPCL Electric Vehicle Charging Station?
eDrive BPCL is BPCL’s dedicated EV charging network built for India’s growing EV ecosystem.
It offers multi-speed charging facilities (AC & DC fast chargers) at key fuel stations, highways, and busy inter-city travel routes.
Key Features
- Charging Speeds: AC slow/medium chargers for overnight use; DC fast chargers for quick top-ups (30–60 mins to 80%).
- Digital Integration: Locate stations, check availability, and pay via BPCL SmartDrive App.
- Compatibility: Open access to all major EV brands and charging standards.
Why Charging Infrastructure is Essential in India
- EV Growth: By 2030, India may see over 10 million EVs on the road (NITI Aayog & Statista).
- Range Anxiety: A Deloitte 2023 survey revealed 50% of buyers worry about charging access.
- BPCL’s Solution: Using its vast network of petrol pumps, BPCL is transforming them into energy hubs for EVs.
Essential Facts about eDrive BPCL Charging Stations
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Operator | Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) |
| Launch Year | 2022 |
| Locations | Urban fuel stations, highways, destination points |
| Charging Types | AC (7.2 kW), DC Fast (15–60 kW, 30–60 min for 80%) |
| Target Network | 7,000+ locations by 2024 |
| Compatibility | CCS2, Type 2, CHAdeMO, Bharat AC/DC |
| Payment | UPI, cards, BPCL SmartDrive app |
| Facilities | Toilets, convenience stores, refreshments, air |
| Parking | Limited spaces at crowded stations |
Types of BPCL Chargers
1. AC Chargers
- Power: 7.2 kW
- Use Case: Overnight charging or long-duration top-ups
- Time: 0–80% in 6–8 hours (commuter EVs)
2. DC Fast Chargers
- Power: 60–150 kW
- Use Case: Quick charging for highway users and fleets
- Time: 0–80% in 40–60 minutes
3. Multi-Connector Plugs
- Supports CCS2, CHAdeMO, Type 2, and Bharat AC/DC.
- Ensures compatibility with most Indian and imported EVs.
Who Can Use eDrive BPCL Charging Stations?
Eligible Users
- Personal EV users (cars, SUVs, some 2- & 3-wheelers).
- Taxis, company cars, delivery fleets.
- Highway travelers & intercity drivers.
- Urban residents needing quick top-ups.
Vehicle Compatibility
| Vehicle Type | Compatible? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| EV Cars (Tata, MG, Hyundai, etc.) | Yes | Most models supported |
| Electric Two-Wheelers | Limited | Available at some units |
| Electric Buses / LCVs | Limited | Only at select high-power units |
| Plug-in Hybrids | Yes | Supported with CCS2/Type 2 |
Advantages of eDrive BPCL Charging Stations
- Nationwide Coverage: Thousands of charging ports mapped across India.
- Fast Charging: 30–60 minutes for 80% charge.
- Convenience Facilities: Toilets, refreshments, rest areas, and shops.
- Digital Integration: SmartDrive app for station locator, booking, and payments.
- Safety & Standards: BPCL ensures consistent service quality.
- Green Energy Expansion: Solar rooftops being added at select stations.
How to Locate & Use eDrive BPCL Charging Stations
Step-by-Step Process
Find a Station
- Use BPCL SmartDrive App (preferred) or BPCL website.
- Filter by city, charger type, or availability.
Check Availability
- App shows live status of charging ports.
- Some stations allow advance booking.
Arrive & Park
- Park in designated EV slot.
- Plug-in using the correct connector (CCS2/Type 2).
Payment & Authentication
- Pay via UPI, card, or SmartDrive wallet.
- Scan QR code or authenticate via app.
Charging & Monitoring
- Session details displayed in real-time.
- App sends completion notifications.
Collect Receipt
- E-receipt available in app for expense claims.
Pro Tips for Users
- Plan Ahead: Especially for long highway trips.
- Avoid Peak Times: Urban stations are busiest during commute hours.
- Charge Smart: Fast charging is most efficient between 20–80% SOC.
- Use Notifications: Get alerts for session completion or slot availability.
- Follow Etiquette: Don’t occupy charging bays after completion.
For Fleet Owners
- BPCL offers volume pricing and corporate accounts.
- Fleets can manage expenses easily with app-based billing.
- Fast chargers are critical for taxis, delivery services, and buses.
Comparison with Other EV Charging Networks in India
| Feature / Network | eDrive BPCL | Tata Power EZ Charge | Fortum C&D | Statiq |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Network Size (2024) | 1000+ | 2000+ | 500+ | ~700 |
| Locations | Highways + BPCL fuel pumps | Urban retail & dealers | Expressways, metros | Urban spaces |
| Charger Power | DC up to 60 kW | AC + DC up to 50 kW | DC up to 50 kW | Mix of AC/DC |
| Membership Discounts | Available | Limited | Regular rates | Regular rates |
| Highway Coverage | Strong | Moderate | Limited | Weak |
Takeaway: BPCL has the strongest highway presence, making it ideal for intercity and long-distance EV users.
FAQs on eDrive BPCL
Q1. How do I know if my EV is compatible?
All Indian EVs (Tata Nexon, MG ZS, Hyundai Kona, etc.) support CCS2/Type 2, available at BPCL stations.
Q2. Do I need pre-registration?
No, but using the SmartDrive app makes payments and bookings easier.
Q3. How much does charging cost?
₹15–₹25 per kWh (varies by location & charger type).
Q4. Can I charge a two-wheeler or e-auto?
Yes, but only at certain stations. Check the app before traveling.
Q5. Do I need the app?
Not mandatory. UPI/QR payments are also accepted at most stations.
Conclusion: India’s Highways are Going Electric with BPCL
BPCL is transforming its petrol pumps into EV-ready energy hubs with eDrive charging stations.
This growing network is making EV ownership practical, reliable, and convenient for both city commuters and long-distance highway travelers.
If you own or plan to buy an EV in India, download the BPCL SmartDrive app today to locate nearby stations, plan routes, and enjoy a seamless charging experience.
India is going electric – one BPCL station at a time.
Sources
- BPCL Official SmartDrive EV Page
- Statista – EV Adoption in India (2024)
- Deloitte 2023 Global Automotive Consumer Study: India Findings
- Tata Power EZ Charge Network
- NITI Aayog – EV Charging Infrastructure Policy
- BPCL Press Release on eDrive Growth
- Industry news via Economic Times, Financial Express, and company press releases (2023-2024)
This article is written to help users, address actual needs, and reflect real-world user journeys with BPCL eDrive stations. Always check official BPCL sources for the latest updates and coverage.


