“Ekhon Charge” Expands EV Infrastructure with a New Fast-Charging Station in Cumilla

NN Online:

Recently Progress Motors Imports Limited (PMIL), the trailblazer behind Bangladesh’s first public electric vehicle (EV) charging network “Ekhon Charge,” has taken another stride towards green mobility by inaugurating its second high-speed DC fast charging station in Cumilla.

Strategically located next to the Dhaka-Chattogram highway at Kabab Express in Cheora, Chauddagram, the newly launched station is expected to significantly ease long-distance EV travel across one of the country’s busiest transport corridors. With a robust 180kW charging capacity, the station can fully charge a compatible vehicle in just 25 minutes, drastically reducing downtime for EV users.

This marks a key milestone in the expansion of EV infrastructure in Bangladesh, following the successful rollout of the first fast-charging station in Tejgaon, Dhaka. Both stations are part of PMIL’s fully self-funded initiative to modernize the country’s mobility landscape.
The Cumilla station was officially inaugurated to marking a significant milestone in the expansion of electric vehicle infrastructure in Bangladesh. Representatives from Progress Motors Imports Limited (PMIL) attended the event, including Abdus Salam Toton, Senior Manager, Admin; Rakat Zahan Ahmed Shahrin, Manager, Supply Chain & Operations; and Md. Sohag Khan, Manager, HR & Admin.

The ceremony also marked the beginning of a strategic partnership between Ekhon Charge and BYD Bangladesh, with Ekhon Charge serving as BYD’s official charging partner. Through this collaboration, BYD users will gain seamless access to both existing and upcoming Ekhon Charge stations, enhancing convenience and mobility across the country. BYD Bangladesh was represented at the inauguration by Methun Bhattacharjee, Head of Network Development; Fahmid Ferdous, Head of Sales; and Mozzammel Huq, Head of Service.

“Ekhon Charge” is more than just a physical infrastructure, it’s powered by a proprietary digital backbone. Developed in-house by PMIL, the “Ekhon Charge” mobile app, available on both iOS and Android platforms, allows users to find nearby stations, initiate and monitor their charging sessions, track usage in real-time, and make digital payments – streamlining the entire EV charging experience.

The station is compatible with all CCS2-compliant EV models, reflecting PMIL’s inclusive approach to electric mobility. In addition to public charging solutions, PMIL has also introduced a range of AC chargers from international partners such as Siemens, Volttic, Aurora, and TBEA, now available for residential, office, and commercial setups through the Ekhon Charge platform.

Electric vehicle charging costs, which are up to 70 percent lower than traditional fuel expenses, play a vital role in Bangladesh’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions. As the nation grapples with rising air pollution and fuel import costs, the shift to EVs represents both an economic and environmental imperative.

PMIL’s long-term roadmap involves the rollout of additional fast-charging stations across the northern and eastern regions of the country. The company also aims to set up charging points in shopping malls, resorts, and entertainment venues, laying the groundwork for a more connected and sustainable transport network.

With “Ekhon Charge,” Progress Motors Imports Limited is not only investing in infrastructure but also in the future of Bangladesh’s clean energy transition.