7 Top Automakers In JV to Accelerate Electric Vehicle Charging in North America

Seven prominent global automakers – BMW Group, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz Group, and Stellantis NV – are forming a joint venture (JV) to expedite the shift to electric vehicle in North America, to enhance the convenience, accessibility, and reliability of EV charging.

The joint venture will encompass the creation of a new high-powered charging network comprising a minimum of 30,000 chargers, enhancing the appeal of emission-free driving for numerous customers. The collective objective is to establish the leading network of dependable high-powered electric vehicle charging stations across North America. Anticipated to be established within this year, the joint venture’s formation is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.

The first stations are projected to launch in the United States during the summer of 2024, followed by openings in Canada in a subsequent phase. These sites will feature multiple high-powered DC chargers, enhancing the convenience of long-distance travel for users. Consistent with the sustainability objectives of all seven automakers, the joint venture aims to exclusively power the charging network using renewable energy sources.

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Capitalizing on the substantial investments in public charging infrastructure at both the Federal and State levels, the JV will utilize a combination of public and private funds to expedite the deployment of high-powered charging solutions for consumers. These upcoming charging stations will be open to all battery-electric vehicles from any manufacturer, utilizing the Combined Charging System (CCS) or North American Charging Standard (NACS). Moreover, these stations are anticipated to align with or surpass the objectives and criteria of the U.S. National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program.

As per an official statement by Honda, customer comfort and charging ease, and convenient locations will be criteria for stations. These will offer canopies wherever possible and amenities such as restrooms, food service and retail operations either nearby or within the same complex. A select number of flagship stations will be equipped with additional amenities, delivering a premier experience designed to showcase the future of charging.

Initial plans call for the deployment of charging stations in metropolitan areas and along major highways, including connecting corridors and vacation routes, aiming to offer a charging station wherever people may choose to live, work and travel.

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The functions and services of the network will allow for seamless integration with participating automakers’ in-vehicle and in-app experiences, including reservations, intelligent route planning and navigation, payment applications, transparent energy management and more. In addition, the network will leverage Plug & Charge technology.