Electric vehicles continually improve with longer range and quicker charging times, but charging costs and where to charge are still huge considerations for potential buyers. That is why many automakers partner with EV charging networks like Electrify America to make the ownership experience easier and more affordable. In the latest partnership with EA, owners of the 2022 BMW i4 and 2022 BMW iX SUV will get two years of 30-minute complimentary charging sessions from the date of purchase. Both vehicles are expected to arrive at dealers next month.

This two-year deal matches similar charging offers with the Polestar 2 and Mercedes-Benz EQS, but the Audi e-tron GT gets three years of complimentary charging, likely because the Volkswagen Group owns EA. The i4 and iX aren't exactly cheap starting at $55,400 and $83,200 respectively, but free charging could sweeten the deal for some buyers.

"The collaboration with Electrify America is one more step on our road towards a sustainable future," Sebastian Mackensen, president and CEO, BMW of North America said. "Charging availability is a key feature when it comes to electric vehicles. We're excited to offer our customers access to charging that is fast, affordable and convenient, as we launch the next generation of all-electric from BMW."

"This is a very exciting time as more drivers are turning to e-mobility for their transportation needs to travel around town and across the country," Giovanni Palazzo, president and CEO of Electrify America added. "Our coast-to-coast network of ultra-fast chargers is growing every week with more charging stations which are ready to welcome new owners of electric vehicles from BMW. We are delighted to collaborate with such a prestigious automotive brand."

EA currently operates more than 3,000 chargers at 800 stations across the United States ranging from 150 kilowatts (kW) to 350kW. This is the fastest of any charging network, though it's worth noting the i4 and iX can only charge at 200 kW. Even still, both cars can recoup around 90 to 108 miles of range in just 10 minutes, likely charging from a 10 to 80% battery during those 30-minute free sessions.

EA says by 2026, it plans to expand its infrastructure to 1,800 charging stations with over 10,000 individual chargers.