Cumilla has become the latest focal point in Bangladesh’s burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem with the inauguration of a new high-speed DC fast charging station by Progress Motors Imports Limited (PMIL), the pioneering force behind the “Ekhon Charge” public EV charging network.
Strategically positioned adjacent to the Dhaka-Chattogram highway at Kabab Express in Cheora, Chauddagram, this second fast-charging facility marks a significant expansion of the nation’s green mobility infrastructure, promising to alleviate range anxiety and facilitate seamless long-distance EV travel along one of its most vital transportation arteries. Boasting a robust 180kW charging capacity, the Cumilla station can fully replenish the battery of a compatible electric vehicle in a mere 25 minutes. This dramatic reduction in charging downtime represents a tangible benefit for EV users, making electric mobility a more practical and appealing option for both intercity and intra-city travel. The launch of this facility follows the successful establishment of PMIL’s inaugural fast-charging station in Tejgaon, Dhaka, further solidifying the company’s commitment to modernising Bangladesh’s transportation landscape through self-funded initiatives.
The inauguration ceremony in Cumilla also heralded a significant strategic alliance between Ekhon Charge and BYD Bangladesh, with Ekhon Charge becoming BYD’s official charging partner in the country. This collaboration will grant BYD EV owners seamless access to both existing and upcoming Ekhon Charge stations nationwide, significantly enhancing the convenience and practicality of electric mobility for a growing segment of the population. The presence of key representatives from both PMIL and BYD Bangladesh at the event underscored the shared vision of accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles and building a comprehensive charging infrastructure to support this transition. At the heart of the Ekhon Charge network lies a proprietary digital backbone, the “Ekhon Charge” mobile application. Developed in-house by PMIL, this user-friendly app, available on both iOS and Android platforms, empowers EV users to effortlessly locate nearby charging stations, initiate and monitor their charging sessions in real-time, track their usage, and make secure digital payments, thereby streamlining the entire EV charging experience. This digital integration is crucial in creating a seamless and convenient ecosystem for EV adoption.
The Cumilla fast-charging station, like its predecessor, is compatible with all EV models adhering to the CCS2 charging standard, reflecting PMIL’s commitment to an inclusive approach to electric mobility. Beyond public charging solutions, PMIL is also actively promoting the adoption of AC chargers from prominent international partners such as Siemens, Volttic, Aurora, and TBEA. These AC chargers are now readily available through the Ekhon Charge platform for installation in residential, office, and commercial settings, catering to a wide range of charging needs. The economic and environmental imperatives driving the shift towards electric vehicles in Bangladesh are compelling. With charging costs significantly lower (up to 70 per cent) than traditional fuel expenses, the transition to EVs offers a tangible pathway to reduce the nation’s carbon emissions and mitigate the burden of rising fuel import costs. PMIL’s long-term strategic roadmap includes the establishment of additional fast-charging stations across the northern and eastern regions of Bangladesh, as well as the deployment of charging points in key locations such as shopping malls, resorts, and entertainment venues.
This ambitious plan lays a robust foundation for a more interconnected and sustainable transportation network, paving the way for a cleaner and more environmentally conscious future for Bangladesh. Through its “Ekhon Charge” initiative, Progress Motors Imports Limited is not only investing in crucial infrastructure but also in the long-term clean energy transition of the nation.
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