Tesla and Dutch EV charging company Fastnet are challenging German petrol station operator Tank & Rast over its dominant position in the EV charging station market along the German Autobahn. Tank & Rast, once a government entity and now privatized, holds 95% of concessions for operating service stations on the motorways and has been permitted to expand its charging infrastructure. Tesla and Fastned are concerned that this expansion is not being conducted in a manner that is open and transparent to all market participants.
The crux of the lawsuit is that the original concession agreements with Tank & Rast did not include provisions for EV charging stations, and the two companies are seeking legal recourse to prevent Tank & Rast from monopolizing this market. They aim to ensure consumer choice and availability by having the right to install their own chargers at these locations. The case, which is being heard at the Higher Regional Court of Düsseldorf, is expected to be lengthy with potential appeals to higher courts, including the European Court of Justice. The outcome is significant for the EV charging market in Europe, especially with the rise in EV sales.
The article was written by Daniel Bleakley, who is known for his expertise in clean technology, electric vehicles, renewable energy, and public policy.
Key Takeaways:
- Tesla and Dutch company Fastned are taking legal action against Tank & Rast to prevent it from monopolizing electric vehicle charging stations on German highways.
- Tank & Rast, a former government entity now privatized, holds a dominant position in operating service areas on German autobahns and is looking to expand this to include EV charging stations.
- The lawsuit aims to ensure a fair and open market for EV charging infrastructure on autobahns, promoting competition and consumer choice.
“”In Germany, Tank & Rast has 95 percent of the concessions to operate gas stations, hotels, and restaurants on the motorways. This monopoly can now be expanded to include electric vehicle charging stations due to last year’s permit,” said Tesmanian in a blog post.”
More details: here