A coalition of seven of the world’s major automakers established a joint venture to build a fast-charging network for electric vehicles, with the first stations opening in the United States in 2024 and more to follow later in Canada.
BMW Group, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz Group, and Stellantis are the seven founding automakers. However, the group will continue to accept new members from both within and beyond the automotive sector.
The partnership’s main objective is to deploy “at least” 30,000 high-speed EV chargers by 2030, starting with the US. The charging stations will be positioned in both urban and highway areas, with an emphasis on dependability, integration, speed, and amenities.
To build up the network, the coalition intends to use National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) financing in the United States, as well as other corporate and public money from state and federal sources.
Every station will be at least 350 kw of fast charging and will include both CCS and Tesla’s NACS connectors. Canopies, restrooms, and either food service or retail activities nearby or on site, similar to a petrol station, shall be provided where possible. The flagship charging stations would include additional conveniences and a “premium experience,” but no details were provided.
The seven founding automakers’ vehicles will have seamless integration, including the ability to make reservations, plug-and-charge, and automatic billing. Vehicle from the founding automakers will also have further integration via smartphone apps, car entertainment systems for full navigation and route planning functions, as well as energy management technologies.