Which automakers are part of the new EV charging network joint venture?

The seven major automakers involved in this new venture are BMW, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz and Stellantis (who own brands such as Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep & Ram). While the name and details of this new EV charging network have not been released yet, the automakers’ goal is to install high-powered, fast charging stations with at least 30,000 plugs in urban and highway locations across North America. This is meant to ease range anxiety for long distance travel and provide individuals with more charging options wherever they go. The first charging stations are planned to open in the U.S. next summer (2024) and in Canada at a later date.

What will the new EV charging network offer?

The good news is that the charging stations will include stations with both charging plugs for Combined Charging System (CSS), which are currently used by most automakers in the U.S., and Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS) connectors. This means all North American electric vehicles will be able to charge from the charging stations, regardless of the charging network they are apart of. The chargers will be fast DC “Level 3” chargers, which on average can charge an EV to 80% in around 20-40 minutes. The goal is for each station to have 10-20 charging plugs.

Additionally, this new EV charging network aims to offer top-notch customer service with various amenities for people while charging at the stations, including food services and retail shops close by. The automakers are also hoping to power these charging stations with renewable energy. Think of these as glorified “gas stations”, but way better for the environment!

If your electric vehicle is manufactured by one of the participating automakers, you will also have the additional perk of seamlessly integrating to the EV charging network’s apps which will offer services such as reservations, intelligent route planning, energy management and payment options.

What does this mean for the future of EVs in North America?

Many Americans are hesitant to purchase an electric vehicle because of a lack of charging infrastructure across the country. This initiative aims at easing people’s anxieties around charging and providing more reliable charging options when away from home for more EV owners. Until now, most fast charging stations across the U.S. have been Tesla’s Superchargers, which are only available for Tesla drivers. With the formation of this new EV charging network by seven other major automakers, the charging infrastructure across North America is becoming even more accessible to all electric models, not just Teslas.

Additionally, with automakers such as Rivian, Ford, GM, Mercedes-Benz and Nissan agreeing to switch over to Tesla’s charging network (NACS), more EV drivers will be able to charge up at Tesla Supercharger stations starting in 2024.

If you’re in the market for an electric vehicle, see which models are currently available for sale near you in our EV listings platform.

Lectrium also helps EV drivers find the best charging solutions for their homes. To get a quote for an EV charger installation, get started by taking our 3 minute survey.