AITO joins BMW and Mercedes-Benz as equal partner in China’s IONCHI charging network

China’s high-power electric vehicle charging network IONCHI, initially founded by BMW and Mercedes-Benz in 2024, has expanded its partnership by welcoming SERES Group as an equal shareholder. This strategic move grants SERES’ premium EV brand AITO a one-third stake in the joint venture, alongside the two German automotive giants. The deal, pending regulatory approval, marks a significant step in consolidating leading OEMs within China’s fast-growing EV infrastructure market. IONCHI operates a network of public high-power charging stations located in prime urban areas across China, all powered by renewable energy sources. The network offers premium services, including online reservation and priority power allocation, which are exclusively available to customers of BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and now AITO. This collaborative approach aims to enhance the charging experience for owners of these brands while promoting the adoption of sustainable mobility solutions. AITO, SERES’ luxury electric vehicle line, has achieved remarkable success in the Chinese market, surpassing one million cumulative users and becoming the best-selling domestic luxury car brand in 2025. By joining IONCHI as an equal partner, SERES not only strengthens its market position but also contributes to the network’s geographic expansion and increased station density. This partnership is expected to accelerate the development of premium charging services and infrastructure across China. The inclusion of SERES alongside BMW and Mercedes-Benz highlights a growing trend of collaboration among OEMs to build robust EV charging ecosystems. It also reflects the competitive dynamics within China’s electric vehicle sector, where domestic and international brands are increasingly working together to meet consumer demand and regulatory pressures. The next steps will involve regulatory clearance and the integration of SERES’ network assets and customer base into IONCHI’s operations, potentially setting a precedent for future multi-brand charging alliances.