Top automakers unite to expand EV charging network in North America

Seven leading automakers, including BMW Group, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz Group, and Stellantis NV, have joined forces to establish a high-powered charging network across North America. This unprecedented joint venture aims to significantly enhance the accessibility of high-powered charging for electric vehicles (EVs).

The collaboration plans to install a minimum of 30,000 high-powered charging points in various urban and highway locations, ensuring customers can charge their EVs as needed. The network will offer an elevated customer experience, focusing on reliability, digital integration, and the use of renewable energy. 

The charging stations will be open to all EV customers, offering both Combined Charging System (CCS) and North American Charging Standard (NACS) connectors. The first stations are set to open in the summer of 2024.

The joint venture will leverage public and private funds to expedite the installation of high-powered charging for customers. The new charging stations will be accessible to all battery-powered electric vehicles from any automaker using CCS or NACS. 

The venture aims to become the leading network of reliable high-powered charging stations in North America. Each site will be equipped with multiple high-powered DC chargers, making long-distance journeys easier for customers. 

The network will provide a seamless, vehicle-integrated, best-in-class charging experience, based on renewable energy and supported by the quality, reliability, and resources of world-leading automakers. The stations will be in convenient locations offering amenities such as restrooms, food service, and retail operations. 

The creation of a best-in-class charging network will ensure that the EV infrastructure will support current and projected EV sales and will foster the adoption of electric vehicles.