The Autobahn GmbH des Bundes has concluded a successful tender process for approximately 1,000 fast-charging points at 200 unmanaged motorway service areas, marking a significant milestone in the expansion of the ‘Deutschlandnetz’ charging network. Contracts have been awarded to Fastned, E.ON, and the bidding consortium Autostrom Nord, alongside TotalEnergies.
According to Autobahn GmbH, the selected operators, or consortium members, are expected to install the charging infrastructure by 2026. The tender, comprising six nationwide lots, each encompassing 32 to 34 locations, aims to facilitate the creation of approximately 1,000 High-Power Charging (HPC) points. These charging sites are vital for supporting the growing demand for electric vehicles across Germany.
While the announcement confirms the awarding of contracts to Fastned, E.ON, Autostrom Nord, and TotalEnergies, details regarding which bidders secured multiple lots remain undisclosed. Fastned, in a separate statement, revealed its success in securing one lot, focusing on the installation of 400 kW charging points primarily in the northern regions of Germany.
The Autostrom consortium, comprising Drees & Sommer, Enercity AG, Q1 Energie AG, and other partners, mentioned the awarding of contracts for “several lots,” indicating the deployment of over 300 charging points. Notably, Enercity will oversee the commissioning and provide the 400 kW charging columns, leveraging its expertise in the energy sector. Drees & Sommer’s proficiency in planning and installation, along with Q1 Energie’s experience in infrastructure operation, further bolster the consortium’s capabilities.
With the completion of this tender process, the German government aims to enhance the accessibility and reliability of charging infrastructure along motorways, thereby alleviating range anxiety for electric vehicle drivers. The initiative underscores a commitment to sustainable mobility and supports the country’s transition towards cleaner transportation options.
The contracts awarded represent the culmination of the second phase of the tender process for the German charging network. The earlier phase, involving regional lots, was concluded in September 2023. Notably, Fastned stands as the sole operator to have initiated operations at a German network site with its charging park in Düren.
Despite the progress made, concerns regarding the amenities and services available at the unmanaged motorway service areas persist. Linda Boll, Country Manager of Fastned Germany, highlights the importance of integrating modern amenities, such as restaurants and shops, to enhance the overall charging experience. However, Autobahn GmbH emphasizes its commitment to meeting essential requirements, including charging capacity, accessibility, and payment systems, to foster confidence in the future of electromobility.
German Federal Transport Minister Volker Wissing lauds the expansion of the Deutschlandnetz, emphasizing the increased accessibility and densification of the charging network across motorways. Similarly, Michael Güntner, Chairman of the Management Board of Autobahn GmbH, underscores the organization’s dedication to supporting sustainable and environmentally friendly mobility.
Burkhard Seizer, Overall Project Manager at Autostrom and Senior Manager at Drees & Sommer, attributes the consortium’s success to its comprehensive expertise in planning, construction, and operation of fast-charging infrastructure. Seizer expresses gratitude for the government’s trust and reaffirms the consortium’s readiness to execute the awarded contracts efficiently.
